Images created by generative artificial intelligence (AI) depicting former President Donald Trump posing with black supporters were shared by Trump supporters on social media, sparking concerns over AI’s potential to amplify election misinformation.

The Details: The AI-generated images were first shared by conservative radio show host Mark Kaye. A Trump campaign official stated the campaign had no involvement in creating or sharing the images.

Key Quotes: Kaye defended his use of the AI photo, stating, “I'm not a photojournalist. I’m not out there taking pictures of what’s really happening,” he told BBC News (Center bias), adding, “I’m a storyteller.”

For Context: There is growing concern around the use of AI to promote false narratives and spread misinformation in the 2024 election season. Federal agencies have cracked down on other instances of AI being used to spread misinformation, most recently with the FCC ban on robocalls using AI-generated voices following an incident during the New Hampshire primary where voters received a call from a voice sounding like President Joe Biden instructing them not to vote.

How the Media Covered It: An analysis from the Washington Post (Lean Left bias) said the fake images provide “examples of how AI might help to fuel subtler forms of propaganda,” determining content like this “might not trigger debunkings or raise flags with content moderators.” The New York Post (Lean Right bias) focused more on how Trump supporters might be trying to use the images to sway public opinion and less on the ethical implications. This summary was developed with the help of AllSides' AI technology.