OpenAI Suspends Dean Phillips to Use Artificial Intelligence in Presidential Campaign

OpenAI, the organization behind the ChatGPT platform, has implemented a ban on the developer responsible for creating an AI bot that mimicked Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn.), a Democratic candidate for the White House.

This development represents the first known instance where OpenAI has restricted the use of artificial intelligence in political campaigns.

OpenAI suspends developer of Dean Phillips bot. First-ever restriction of AI in political campaigns. Details on the bot, the Silicon Valley minds behind it, and the billionaire backing. Full story: https://t.co/IvszmDwc2h #AI #Politics #DeanPhillips #OpenAI #PoliticalCampaigns pic.twitter.com/2w48rxDJZR

— Dr. Hubertus Becker (@hubertusbecker) January 22, 2024

The suspended account belongs to Delphi, a startup contracted to develop Dean.Bot, an AI system enabling real-time interactions with voters through a website.

The bot was initiated by Silicon Valley entrepreneurs Matt Krisiloff and Jed Somers, founders of the super PAC "We Deserve Better," which supports Phillips.

The suspension led Delphi to take down Dean.Bot. This move by OpenAI is significant as it underscores the organization's commitment to maintaining ethical standards and responsible AI use in the political realm.

Delphi's bot was created to engage with voters on behalf of Phillips, who is participating in a long-shot presidential bid against incumbent President Biden.

The suspension of Delphi's account took place just before the New Hampshire primary, adding an additional layer of significance to the incident.

The super PAC supporting Phillips, "We Deserve Better," received a notable $1 million contribution from Bill Ackman, a billionaire hedge fund manager.

The suspension by OpenAI serves as a proactive measure to address the potential misuse of AI tools in political campaigning, reinforcing the importance of adhering to usage policies.

In response to the suspension, an OpenAI spokesperson emphasized the necessity for developers to comply with their usage policies. The violation, in this case, involved the use of AI for political campaigning and the impersonation of an individual without their consent.

OpenAI's intervention showcases its commitment to upholding ethical standards and preventing the inappropriate use of AI technologies in political contexts.