Trump Uses AI to Shape Image and Attack Rivals on Social Media

Former President Donald Trump has increasingly utilized artificial intelligence-generated content on his social media platform, Truth Social, to bolster his image and target political opponents. This strategy marks a significant departure from traditional political communication, establishing Trump as a pioneer in the application of AI imagery in American politics. Since assuming office for a second term, he has created hyper-realistic visuals that depict himself in various heroic and regal roles, while portraying rivals in a negative light.

The use of AI imagery has escalated dramatically, particularly in recent weeks. For example, in September 2023, Trump shared a fabricated video where he is seen wearing a crown and piloting a fighter jet, which humorously dumps refuse on protesters. This post coincided with nationwide protests against his administration’s perceived authoritarianism, showcasing how he leverages AI to intertwine his personal narrative with current events.

AI-Generated Content as a Communication Tool

Trump’s administration is now recognized as the first to deploy AI-generated visuals as a core component of its communications. The fabricated images include depictions of Trump as Superman and even as the Pope, alongside other fantastical scenarios such as conducting an orchestra. These images have elicited confusion among social media users, with some questioning their authenticity. The White House has not commented on whether these visuals were created by Trump or his team.

Nora Benavidez, senior counsel at the advocacy organization Free Press, emphasized that Trump’s use of unregulated generative AI serves to distort reality and manipulate public perception. She stated, “Trump peddles disinformation on and offline to boost his own image, attack his adversaries and control public discourse.”

In another notable instance, Trump faced backlash for sharing a video promising Americans access to fictitious “MedBed” hospitals. This concept, rooted in debunked conspiracy theories, suggests a miraculous medical device that can cure all ailments. The video, styled as a segment from Fox News, was quickly deleted, further illustrating the contentious nature of his AI-driven messaging.

Targeting Rivals and Engaging Supporters

Trump has reserved some of his most provocative AI content for his political rivals. In July, he posted an AI-generated video that implied former President Barack Obama had been arrested, portraying him in an orange jumpsuit. Additionally, he shared an AI image of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, which was criticized for its racist undertones.

Joshua Tucker, co-director of the New York University Center for Social Media and Politics, commented on Trump’s approach, stating, “I would see his behavior more as campaigning through trolling than actively trying to propagate the false belief that these images depict reality.” This perspective highlights how Trump’s online activity serves to excite his conservative base rather than convey factual information.

In a striking parallel, California Governor Gavin Newsom recently posted an AI-generated video mocking Republicans after Democrats achieved significant electoral victories. This clip featured wrestlers with superimposed faces of Democratic leaders triumphing over their Republican challengers, reinforcing the idea that AI-generated content is rapidly becoming a tool for political commentary across the spectrum.

As the landscape of political discourse evolves, Trump’s innovative and controversial use of AI-generated imagery raises pressing questions about the implications for truth in media and public perception. The blurred lines between reality and fabrication challenge traditional notions of political accountability and may redefine how future campaigns are conducted.