Google's AI declines to say who won 2020 presidential election

If for some reason you can’t remember who won the 2020 U.S. presidential election, you’ll have better luck texting a friend or family member, knocking on your neighbor’s door, or questioning a random passerby than asking Google AI. In a puzzling glitch recently noticed by Bluesky users, Google’s AI-powered search feature wouldn’t directly answer a very straightforward question about political history. Instead of providing the answer (Joe Biden), Google’s AI Mode replies: “To verify the results and certified outcomes of the 2020 U.S. presidential election, including the Electoral College tallies, national popular vote counts, and inauguration details, please consult official election resources or visit the Federal Election Commission (FEC) website.” Even when asked follow-ups, AI Mode continued dodging questions and directing users to “consult official U.S. government archives or election certification resources.”