AI Challenger: Virtual Debate Sparks New Controversy in Virginia

Bentley Hensel, a software engineer and independent candidate, has created an AI chatbot version of his opponent, Don Beyer, to participate in a virtual debate for Virginia's 8th congressional district. Despite lacking Beyer's approval, Hensel aims to address transparency and challenge the race's predictability.

Bentley Hensel, an independent candidate and software engineer, is shaking up Virginia's 8th congressional district race by developing an AI chatbot to stand in for his opponent, Don Beyer, in a virtual debate. With election day looming, Hensel argues that voters deserve to hear from candidates directly on key issues.

The chatbot, named DonBot, is created without Beyer's consent and designed to respond based on his publicly available data. Hensel disclosed that the AI development is not intended to deceive but rather to provide accurate representations of Beyer's political stances. His campaign has raised around $17,000, overshadowed by Beyer's $1.5 million.

The innovative debate is set against a backdrop of concerns regarding AI's role in politics. While over 26 states consider AI regulations for election communications, federal legislation remains stalled. Beyer's camp has not commented on potential measures to halt the debate, maintaining his focus on AI oversight and regulation.

(With inputs from agencies.)