U.S. Adults Turn to AI Chatbots for Election News

A new survey finds that 8% of American adults use AI tools to research candidates and navigate the 2026 midterm process.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Elections

Isometric editorial illustration of a translucent geometric data-prism, representing the analytical role of AI in 2026 election research. — Eight percent of U.S. adults now use AI chatbots to research candidates and navigate 2026 midterm election logistics and information. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you trust information provided by AI chatbots about candidates and election issues?

Eight percent of U.S. adults report using AI chatbots to find information regarding the 2026 elections. Among those who use chatbots specifically for election information, 76% research candidate positions on key issues.

Why it matters

As AI tools become more integrated into daily life, voters are increasingly relying on them to fact-check information and understand complex policy positions. This shift highlights a new digital dimension in how citizens prepare for national elections.

The survey results represent a full-sample margin of sampling error of 1.5 percentage points. While 50% of U.S. adults use chatbots for some tasks, only 15% of those users leverage the technology to find election-related information.

The players

Pew Research Center

This nonpartisan fact tank informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world through social science research.

SSRS

This full-service survey research firm conducts rigorous public opinion polling and data collection for academic and government organizations.

The details

Seventy-one percent of chatbot users employ the tools to check the accuracy of information, while 65% seek details regarding a candidate's life and career. Additionally, 40% of these users rely on chatbots for guidance on choosing whom to support or for practical help with registration and voting logistics.

Pew Research Center conducted the survey from Oct. 12-18, 2026.
The data reflects voter behavior leading up to the November 2026 midterms.

Political Context

The study of AI election information usage follows a pattern set by the Help America Vote Act's efforts to standardize voter information access. The rise of AI as an information source represents a modern evolution of the goals established by the Help America Vote Act to facilitate access to election logistics.

Using AI for election research can provide quick access to candidate backgrounds and logistics, but users should verify claims through official government sources. Relying solely on chatbots for voting suggestions may lead to filtered information, so it remains critical to consult non-partisan guides before finalizing your ballot.

The takeaway

Voters should be aware that while AI is becoming a common resource for checking facts, it is not a substitute for reviewing official candidate platforms and election office requirements. Cross-referencing AI summaries with primary sources remains the most effective way to ensure accuracy.