GOP Deploys AI Schumer Video Amid Government Shutdown Battle
Source: thehill.com
As the government shutdown drags on, political factions are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence as a tool for both attack and defense. The latest example involves an AI-generated video of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
AI-Generated Controversy
The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) shared an AI-generated video depicting Senator Schumer seemingly praising the ongoing government shutdown. The video uses an actual quote from Schumer, but presents it in a misleading context. The clip, posted on X, shows an AI-generated image of Schumer saying, "Every day gets better for us," before smiling.
From there, the video transitions to news clips highlighting the shutdown's negative impacts, such as military members using food banks and air traffic control disruptions. It also includes a clip of Senator Ted Cruz claiming Democrats favor the shutdown to provide free healthcare to undocumented immigrants, which is a disputed claim.
NRSC Defends the Video
Joanna Rodriguez, the NRSC's communications director, defended the video in an X post, stating, "AI is here and not going anywhere. Adapt & win or pearl clutch & lose.” She added that Senate Democrats repeatedly voted to keep the government closed, resulting in missed paychecks and staff shortages. She argued that these consequences align with Schumer's purported sentiment.
Broader Use of AI in Political Attacks
AI-generated content has become increasingly prevalent in the political arena. President Trump recently shared a manipulated video of Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. In that video, Jeffries was wearing a sombrero and mustache, while Schumer made controversial remarks. Jeffries denounced the video as racist.
Government Entities Join In
An official account of the Department of Transportation (DOT) shared an AI-generated image of Schumer and Jeffries in Disney princess dresses. The White House then reshared the DOT's post, which mocked the 'No Kings' protest movement.
California's Newsom Trolls Trump
California Governor Gavin Newsom has also employed AI to criticize the Trump administration. Newsom's press office shared an AI-generated image of Marie Antoinette with Trump's face on October 2nd. Days later, they shared an image of Newsom with a Christopher Columbus statue, both wearing sunglasses.