Rob Ashton, a candidate for the NDP leadership and a prominent union leader, utilized artificial intelligence tools during an online campaign event despite concerns about AI replacing human workers. Observant users on Reddit pointed out that some of Ashton’s responses during his “ask me anything” session appeared to have been generated by AI models. Following inquiries from CBC News, Ashton’s campaign promptly issued an apology on the r/ndp subreddit, admitting that certain answers were crafted with AI assistance without Ashton’s review and approval.
Acknowledging the incident, Ashton’s team explained that due to his travel commitments, helpers and volunteers were tasked with drafting responses for him to assess. Emphasizing transparency and accountability, Ashton expressed regret over the AI-generated responses and assured that such occurrences would not repeat. As a key figure advocating for working-class interests in the NDP leadership race, Ashton has been a frontrunner, contrasting himself against other official candidates.
Reddit users highlighted Ashton’s reliance on AI-generated responses, pointing out the use of em dashes and bullet points as indicators of automated content. Reactions to Ashton’s apology varied from disappointment to skepticism among users, reflecting the gravity of the issue. In response, Ashton affirmed his stance against the misuse of AI, citing its detrimental impacts on labor, democracy, and wealth distribution. He called for stringent regulations and vowed to replace the AI-generated responses with his own in the coming days.
Notably, other NDP leadership candidates like Tony McQuail, Avi Lewis, Heather McPherson, and Tanille Johnston shared their views on AI and campaign practices, with varying approaches and policy plans. The leadership race, which has largely been uneventful, saw Ashton’s AI mishap and McPherson’s remarks on purity tests as standout incidents. As the NDP members gear up to elect their new leader in March, these developments could influence the outcome of the race.