United Kingdom businessman and MP candidate Steve Endacott campaigned using an AI-generated avatar that engages with locals on policy ideas and asks them for their suggestions. Are you worried about AI taking over your job? You can write to your local MP, who might just be an AI too. Businessman Steve Endacott is among hundreds of candidates running in the July 4 national election in Britain to become a member of parliament (MP). Here's his hook: the face on the campaign leaflet is an AI-generated avatar of the 59-year-old, not the man himself.

In a bizarre turn of events, two AI chatbots are running for elected office for the first time--ever. VIC is campaigning for mayor in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and AI Steve is running for Parliament in the UK. Reporter Vittoria Elliot interviewed both of the bots and the people behind them. She explains their motivations, and if any of this is even legal. Meanwhile, reporter David Gilbert talks about how Google and Microsofts' AI chatbots are refusing to confirm who won the 2020 election.

As the United Kingdom heads toward its elections next month, the country is seeing its first instance of a new kind of politician: an AI candidate. AI Steve, an avatar of real-life Steven Endacott, a Brighton-based businessman, is running for Parliament as an Independent. Voters will be able to cast their ballots for AI Steve, as well as ask policy positions or raise issues of their own. AI Steve will then incorporate suggestions and requests into its platform. Endacott will be the in-person representative attending meetings and parliamentary sessions on behalf of AI Steve.