AI's role in the NYC mayoral race unveiled, revealing political applications
In the dynamic world of technology, AI (Artificial Intelligence) is making a significant impact, not just in the realm of innovation, but also in the political sphere. This is particularly evident in the reelection campaign of New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
Mayor Adams, who is running independently for reelection, is leveraging AI to create promotional materials, respond to current events, and engage with voters. His campaign isn't relying solely on AI, but it's a notable part of his strategy.
Meanwhile, the demand for AI-related services is reflected in the surge of interest in the .ai domain extension. Originally belonging to the Caribbean island of Anguilla, this domain has seen a significant increase in registrations in the past year. Companies and entrepreneurs worldwide, including major AI-focused tech firms, are paying top dollar to register their websites there.
This trend is reminiscent of what happened for the Pacific island of Tuvalu and its domain .tv more than two decades ago. Anguilla's revenue from selling .ai domain extensions is a substantial portion of its total revenue. Last year, the island generated $39 million from this service, almost a quarter of its total revenue, and expects to make $48.8 million this year and $51 million in 2026.
The boom in demand for .ai domain extensions is likely due to the rise of AI technology. This development could help Anguilla's economy become less reliant on tourism, which is at risk each hurricane season. The business of selling .ai domain extensions may provide a much-needed diversification for the island's economy.
In another development, the New York Federal Reserve released a report suggesting that manufacturing and service industries in the region are safe from new technologies taking jobs in the near term. This reassurance offers a glimmer of stability in an otherwise rapidly changing technological landscape.
However, the rise of AI isn't without its challenges. Graphic designers are being hired to fix sloppy AI-generated photos, and there have been controversial AI-generated videos, such as one depicting a post-apocalyptic New York with the sign "Camp Zohran."
In the political arena, the reelection campaign of Mayor Adams has drawn national attention. Meanwhile, in the Democratic primary, Zohran Mamdani emerged victorious, defeating former state Gov. Andrew Cuomo. The AI-generated videos detailing allegations of sexual harassment by Cuomo have added a unique twist to the political narrative.
As AI continues to evolve and permeate various aspects of our lives, it will be interesting to see how it shapes the future of politics and economies alike.
