This posting is inspired from the recent article published in the October 24th issue of the NYT.
It was written by Stuart A. Thompson and titled “How Trump Deploys Fake AI Videos to Assail Rivals and Stoke Supporters”
📰 Article Summary
Key Points
The article describes how Donald Trump has increasingly used AI-generated videos and imagery on his social media platform (notably his Truth Social account) as a tool of political messaging. Benton Foundation+2TV News Check+2
These AI-generated visuals fall into a few categories:
Attacks on political rivals (both Democrats and Republicans) through exaggerated or surreal imagery. Benton Foundation+1
Flattering or mythic depictions of Trump himself, elevating his persona in non-usual ways. Benton Foundation+1
Campaign style materials — e.g., using AI to create new visuals/memes rather than traditional campaign videos. editorandpublisher.com+1
The article notes one standout example: after nationwide protests (labelled the “No Kings” protests) Trump posted an AI-generated video showing himself as a fighter-pilot jet (“King Trump”) flying through cityscapes and dropping liquid matter (interpreted as excrement) on protesters. TV News Check+2Wikipedia+2
According to the review referenced in the article, since late 2022 Trump has posted at least 62 pieces of AI-generated imagery/videos on his Truth Social account. Among those, at least 14 targeted his opponents with AI-generated visuals. Benton Foundation+1
The article discusses broader implications:
That this signals a transition into an era where AI can produce “propaganda-style” visuals more cheaply and rapidly than conventional media.
That this introduces new challenges for media literacy, verification, and the integrity of public discourse, because viewers may be unable to distinguish real vs artificial.
The piece raises questions about whether these are intended purely for spectacle, or whether they aim at influencing opinions/subconscious messaging.
It also suggests links between this tactic and strategies used by more authoritarian-leaning regimes (in using flashy imagery to bolster a leader’s persona). editorandpublisher.com+1
Why It Matters
This is a clear example of how new generative AI tools are reshaping political communications.
It’s relevant to themes of authenticity, trust in media, the blurred line between entertainment/meme-culture and serious political messaging.
The visual dimension (AI-videos) makes it especially potent: visuals can bypass rational scrutiny and go straight to emotional or visceral reaction.
It also underscores how professionals ( communications background) may need to adapt: knowing how to spot, interpret, and contextualize AI-generated media becomes more important.
🎬 Video Examples (to embed in your blog)
Here are a couple of video/visuals
My Food For Thought For Today:
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