Google Restricts Election-related Queries on Gemini AI Globally Amid Controversy

By: Eva Baxter

In a move to control potential misinformation during critical election periods, Google has globally blocked its Gemini AI chatbot from responding to almost all election-related queries. The tech company initially limited election-oriented queries in the U.S. in view of the upcoming 2024 general elections, but has now enforced the restriction worldwide.

The decision followed a recent controversy in India where the AI made inappropriate comments about the country's current Prime Minister pertaining to future elections. In response, Google assured cooperation with the Election Commission of India (ECI) to offer accurate voter information in search results, YouTube, and election ad transparency in alliance with the ECI.

Tests reveal that Gemini no longer answers any election or politician related queries, regardless of the country, with most responses deferring users to Google Search. Even if the user resides in a country that never held elections, the chatbot refrains from answering such queries. Uncertainty remains on whether Google will reassess its policy post-election periods globally.