How Technology and Algorithms are Shaping the Future of Elections

How Technology and Algorithms are Shaping the Future of Elections

November 14, 2024

Algorithms are increasingly influencing nearly every aspect of our daily lives. From social media to online shopping to the recommendations on streaming platforms, algorithms—those programmed instructions—are behind the scenes, shaping what we see and experience. Yet, few understand how algorithms operate or realize the extent of their reach. These invisible forces have evolved through artificial intelligence (AI) in recent years, defining a new era and, notably, leaving an indelible mark on democratic processes. As technology evolves, the line between democratic choice and technological influence is becoming increasingly blurred.

The political impact of algorithms first gained widespread attention in the 2016 U.S. presidential election when former President Donald Trump’s campaign used data from Cambridge Analytica to target voters more strategically. Cambridge Analytica reportedly harvested vast amounts of data from Facebook users, compiling detailed psychological profiles to influence voter behavior. The approach opened the public’s eyes to the power of data and algorithms in politics. This marked the beginning of a new era where elections were no longer solely about people’s choices but increasingly about how data could shape those choices.

Fast forward to the 2024 election cycle, and a new twist in tech-driven political influence has emerged: Elon Musk’s alleged significant financial support of the Trump campaign, with reports suggesting he has contributed around $75 million via the America First PAC. Musk’s economic influence is coupled with his ownership of the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), which potentially offers him an additional channel to boost the Trump campaign’s visibility. While there is no direct evidence that Musk is using X to manipulate election outcomes, his platform’s influence over public discourse raises questions about Big Tech leaders' role in shaping political landscapes. As Musk’s contributions draw scrutiny, it becomes evident that money, particularly from tech giants, can profoundly impact elections, questioning whether democratic outcomes genuinely reflect the will of the people or merely the power of Big Tech.

The role of technology in elections is not limited to the United States. Venezuela’s 2024 election provides a striking example of the complexities surrounding tech and democracy. Substantial evidence gathered by opposition groups and independent observers suggests that President Nicolás Maduro lost by a substantial margin to opposition candidate Edmundo González. However, Maduro’s government-controlled electoral council declared him the victor, sparking widespread allegations of electoral fraud. According to reports from various media and academic sources, opposition volunteers documented tallies showing González winning by a clear majority. Independent analyses from the Associated Press and the Washington Post supported these findings, concluding that González won around 66% of the vote.

Despite this evidence, Maduro’s government has dismissed calls to release the official voting data, instead alleging unsubstantiated claims of hacking attempts on the electoral council’s systems. Additionally, Maduro’s government reportedly engaged in multiple election-day irregularities: polling stations were relocated without notice, international observers were blocked from monitoring, and polling stations in pro-Maduro regions remained open past official closing times. This manipulation, described by some as the most significant electoral fraud in Latin America, demonstrates how technology can be weaponized to undermine democratic processes rather than safeguard them.

As technology’s role in politics intensifies, smaller nations, such as Cura?ao, may question what the future holds for their electoral processes. The stakes are exceptionally high for nations with less regulatory oversight of technology’s influence on elections. While some argue that technology could improve transparency and make voting more accessible, others warn that the unchecked power of data and algorithms could erode the very foundation of democracy. As seen in recent elections worldwide, technology can be a double-edged sword—capable of enhancing and undermining democratic integrity.

In essence, the future of elections in the age of AI and algorithms presents a complex mix of opportunity and risk. The question remains: will technology help preserve democratic principles, or will it enable those with resources to sway elections in their favor? Watching the developments in the U.S., Venezuela, and beyond, it is clear that democratic societies must carefully navigate this new terrain. As elections become increasingly shaped by invisible forces, the need to balance technological advancements with transparent democratic safeguards will be essential in ensuring that the true voice of the people prevails.

Miguel Goede

Cliff Belfor

Executive Consultant, Strategist and Civil Aviation Specialist

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Society must be called upon to raise awareness of the biases and unethical uses of AI. These steps can help ensure that AI supports democracy, not undermines it. * AI can reflect societal biases, leading to unfair outcomes: society needs to be aware of this in order to push for fairer AI systems. * Continuous monitoring and validation Regularly monitor AI output for biases and validate its accuracy to ensure fair and equitable decisions. * Reduce risks and protect democracy: By being vigilant and validating AI, we can reduce risks and protect democratic values such as fairness and transparency.

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