AI in the Ballot Box (2026 Edition)
Hosted by Data Science Institute, Columbia University
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What to look forward to
As part of the Data Science Institute’s Frontiers in Data Science and AI initiative, this event will explore emerging ideas at the intersection of data science and AI. It will be co-sponsored by Columbia University Life.
Inside the event
**AI in the Ballot Box (2026 Edition)**
As the United States approaches the 2026 midterm elections, artificial intelligence is drawing attention both as a source of political information and a potential threat to democracy. Voters are turning to AI tools to learn about elections, compare candidates, and evaluate policies. Campaigns are also using generative AI to profile voters, craft persuasive messages, and engage the public through chatbots. Join us for a panel discussion on how AI could shape the 2026 elections, from helping voters make informed decisions to enabling misinformation and manipulation. We will explore what these tools mean for political persuasion, public trust, and the future of democratic participation.
**Speakers**
- **Host & Panelist: [Yamil Velez**](https://polisci.columbia.edu/content/yamil-r-velez), Assistant Professor of Political Science, Arts and Sciences, Columbia University
- **Panelist: [Christopher Barrie**](https://as.nyu.edu/faculty/chris-barrie.html?challenge=d06e90d7-4d8f-4b88-9d8c-10b73beb60f1), Assistant Professor of Sociology; and Core Faculty, Center for Social Media, AI, and Politics, New York University
- **Panelist: [Silvia Sellán**](https://www.engineering.columbia.edu/faculty-staff/directory/silvia-sellan), Assistant Professor of Computer Science, Columbia Engineering
- **Panelist: [Kerrel Murray**](https://www.law.columbia.edu/faculty/kerrel-murray), Associate Professor of Law, Columbia Law School
- **Moderator: [Dhrumil Mehta**](https://journalism.columbia.edu/directory/dhrumil-mehta), Associate Professor in Data Journalism and Deputy Director of the Tow Center for Digital Journalism, Columbia Journalism School
Buell Hall - Maison Française
515 West 116th Street, New York, NY 10027, US. Confirm the venue with the organizer before traveling.
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Last checked: Nov 2, 2026. Confirm current availability before making plans.
Organizer page checked: Oct 20, 2026. Check registration for the latest details.