In a unique and glitch-filled debate on Thursday, two independent candidates faced off against an artificial intelligence representation of incumbent Congressman Don Beyer, highlighting the uncertain role of AI in political campaigns. The debate, streamed online via YouTube and Rumble, allowed the challengers to debate “DonBot,” a virtual stand-in for Beyer, who chose not to attend.
Challenger Bentley Hensel created the AI version of Beyer using materials from the congressman’s website to simulate his policy stances. The AI, depicted as a robotic icon labeled “DonBot,” read responses in a mechanical voice without attempting to mimic Beyer’s tone. The debate included Hensel, fellow challenger David Kennedy, and representatives of the debate’s sponsors, but Republican candidate Jerry Torres was absent.
The candidates discussed issues like gun control, aid to Israel, and healthcare. When asked why voters should re-elect Beyer, the AI responded, “My answer is simple: I believe that I can make a real difference in the lives of the people of Virginia’s 8th district.” The AI also addressed foreign aid, stating it would oppose cutting all assistance to Israel unless the establishment of a Palestinian state was required.
Beyer, a Democrat who won nearly 75% of the vote in 2022, is expected to be re-elected comfortably. He has previously opposed additional aid to Israel, arguing that the wealthy nation can borrow funds, though he has supported humanitarian assistance and defensive capabilities in the past.
The AI debate sparked attention following a Reuters report earlier this month, which led OpenAI to revoke Hensel’s access to its API, citing a policy against political use. Hensel switched to another AI platform for the event.
One of the debate’s sponsors, the True Representation Movement, saw its founder, Ahmed Bouzid, join Hensel’s campaign shortly after the debate was organized. Bouzid also served as one of the debate moderators. Despite the experimental use of AI, the debate drew few viewers and had several technical issues, underscoring the complexity and novelty of using AI in political settings.
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