Artificial intelligence (AI) entered the 2024 UK general election as an independent candidate in an unprecedented move. AI Steve, developed by businessman Steve Endacott, contested the Brighton Pavilion constituency. This innovative approach, however, failed to captivate the electorate, as AI Steve garnered only 179 votes, a mere 0.3% of the total.
The vision behind AI Steve
Frustrated with the country’s “standard politics,” Mr. Endacott introduced AI Steve as a novel solution. Powered by the Neural Voice company, Steve aimed to provide continuous access to constituents, engaging in real-time conversations on various issues and offering policy ideas. The AI was capable of handling up to 10,000 simultaneous interactions.
Electoral clarification and campaign challenges
Before the election, the UK election watchdog clarified AI Steve’s candidacy, stating that if Steve won, the human candidate, Steve Endacott, and not the AI, would assume office as a Member of Parliament. Despite making history as the first AI candidate in UK elections, AI Steve’s campaign struggled to gain traction among voters.
Election results
The Brighton Pavilion constituency experienced a 70% voter turnout, with the Green Party’s Sian Berry winning the seat. Meanwhile, on a national level, Keir Starmer’s Labour Party secured a majority government with over 326 seats in the House of Commons. This decisive victory marks the end of 14 years of Conservative rule, with Mr Starmer set to become the next Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. The incumbent Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, conceded defeat after multiple cabinet members lost their seats.
A step towards the future
While Steve failed in this election, the venture signifies a bold step toward integrating advanced technology into the political landscape. As Mr. Endacott reflects on the campaign, the world watches closely, pondering the potential role of AI in future democratic processes.