Will AI deepfakes affect the 2026 election?

Probably yes, but the size and direction of the effect are still uncertain. AI deepfakes are likely to be present in the 2026 U.S. midterm cycle and could fuel misinformation, make it harder to tell real from fake content, and create confusion in campaigns and among voters.

That said, it’s not possible to state with certainty that they will actively shape the outcome of the election as a whole. Their impact will depend on how widely they’re used, how quickly platforms and campaigns respond, and how well voters verify suspicious content. Exact effects can also change quickly as the campaign unfolds, so it’s worth checking current reporting and official election information closer to Election Day.