Nevada’s Democratic Secretary of State, Representative Cisco Aguilar, discussed the varied threats facing elections in the state. In a recent interview, Aguilar highlighted concerns about fake Biden robocalls and the potential impact of artificial intelligence (A.I.) on election integrity. He emphasized the need for adequate resources and collaboration to safeguard Nevada’s elections amidst evolving threats and challenges.
Ensuring Election Security Amidst New Threats
Aguilar assured Nevada voters that the state runs some of the safest elections in the country, boasting accessibility, mail-in ballots, early voting, and same-day registration. However, he acknowledged the growing concerns about the potential influence of A.I. and deep fakes on the electoral process, calling for enhanced preparedness and collaboration with federal agencies.
Collaboration with Colleagues and Federal Government
Aguilar stressed the importance of constant communication with colleagues and secretaries of state in other states, such as Michigan and Arizona, to address emerging threats effectively. He highlighted the need for federal support and resources to better respond to challenges posed by A.I. and misinformation campaigns targeting voters.
Regulatory Measures to Combat Election Interference
The discussion also touched upon the recent FCC ruling that classifies fake robocalls under consumer protection laws, imposing hefty fines on violators. Aguilar underscored the significance of regulatory measures in deterring election interference, particularly targeting communities of color, which are often vulnerable to disinformation campaigns.
Challenges of Spanish-Language Disinformation
As a member of the Latino community, Aguilar expressed concerns about Spanish-language disinformation campaigns targeting Nevada’s diverse population. He emphasized the importance of addressing biases in A.I. systems and combating misinformation spread through platforms like WhatsApp, which are widely used in communities of color.
Building Trust and Ensuring Voter Participation
Aguilar highlighted efforts to build trust and engage communities of color in the electoral process. He underscored the importance of direct communication with pastors and community leaders to address concerns and educate voters about election security measures and the importance of their participation.
Addressing Concerns of Election Workers
Election workers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the electoral process. Aguilar emphasized the need to address concerns and ensure the safety of poll workers, particularly in rural communities where recruitment remains a challenge. He highlighted legislative efforts to protect election workers from harassment and intimidation.
Conclusion: Upholding Democratic Principles
In conclusion, Aguilar reiterated the importance of safeguarding democracy by ensuring the integrity and security of elections. He emphasized the collective responsibility of government officials, community leaders, and voters in upholding democratic principles and preserving the sanctity of the electoral process in Nevada and beyond. Stay tuned for further updates on election security measures and initiatives in the state.