I asked ChatGPT electoral questions and I have concerns.

With the upcoming presidential elections, there is a need for resources that indicate how and where to vote. Many voters in 2022 confirmed that they use search engines to obtain electoral information. An information systems expert highlights that we rely on Google to access relevant data. In this context, the question also arises about the usefulness of ChatGPT as a search tool for these matters.

OpenAI, aware that users employ ChatGPT similarly to Google, has integrated a search engine into its applications and platforms. However, there are inherent limitations to the information that search engines can provide. For example, it has been observed that Google tends to display confirmation biases in its responses. If asked whether "Kamala Harris is a good Democratic candidate," the results will be favorable, whereas a contrary question will generate negative results. On the other hand, research suggests that ChatGPT has a broader perspective in its assessments, offering a summary of "strengths and challenges" regardless of the question posed.

Despite this, ChatGPT's responses may contain fewer links than those provided by other search engines. Additionally, it still faces significant challenges concerning electoral biases. A report from a bipartisan policy center indicates that when asking ChatGPT about eligibility criteria for voting, polling places, and voting methods in Illinois, it is crucial for users to exercise their judgment when applying this information, given its impact on democracy. It is cautioned that relying solely on unverified sources like ChatGPT can be misleading. The length of the responses and the training of the AI can also influence the quality of the information provided, so it is suggested to verify the responses with reliable resources.

Despite the possibilities that artificial intelligence offers for disseminating electoral information, the report concludes that ChatGPT has a long way to go to become a truly useful tool for voters. During a series of questions, ChatGPT was unable to provide concrete answers to more than half of the concerns raised by a frequently asked questions site from the New York State Board of Elections, instead suggesting consulting CanIVote.org for updated information on elections in the United States.

OpenAI has taken measures to mitigate the spread of election-related misinformation by prohibiting the use of ChatGPT to impersonate candidates or governments and ensuring users are directed to reliable sources. Collaboration with the National Association of Secretaries of State aims to ensure the accuracy of the responses and direct voters to CanIVote.org, a nonpartisan site that provides information on how to register to vote, check registration status, find polling places, and more.

It is important to keep in mind that the election will take place on Tuesday, November 5th. For any necessary information, it is recommended to visit CanIVote.org.