Donald Trump calls for regulation of AI following the creation of AI-generated Taylor Swift endorsements for his candidacy.
Former President Donald Trump has voiced significant concerns regarding the proliferation of AI-generated content, particularly content that mimics well-known personalities like Taylor Swift. Trump emphasized the ethical and potential legal issues that arise when AI creates content that imitates celebrities without their consent. By using AI-generated images and videos, Trump underscored the necessity for comprehensive regulatory measures to protect intellectual property rights and prevent the unauthorized replication of artists’ identities.
AI-generated content influences the political landscape, with new legislation on AI-generated images in political campaigns sparking deeper conversations. Trump himself used AI-generated memes suggesting Taylor Swift’s endorsement of his candidacy on Truth Social, which highlights the broader implications of this technology.
Despite the potential benefits of AI in various fields, its misuse in creating misleading endorsements and support poses a serious threat. IP and entertainment lawyer Noah Downs highlighted the rise of AI impersonators for endorsements, illustrating the urgency for regulatory frameworks to address this growing issue. Downs also noted that the Tennessee ELVIS Act, signed in March, aims to protect artists from unauthorized AI imitations.
Several experts are sounding alarms over the rise of AI-generated content in political social media, which can quickly spread misinformation. The Federal Election Commission (FEC) is unlikely to issue new guidelines on AI-generated political communications this election cycle, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plans new AI transparency requirements only for TV and radio ads, not social media posts.
Lisa Gilbert of Public Citizen remarked, “The AI-generated deepfakes of Taylor Swift are yet another example of AI’s power to create misinformation that deceives and defrauds voters. The potential harms to our society that could result from such misinformation, including abuses of our elections, are wide-reaching and immensely damaging.” This statement underscores the profound impact of AI-generated content on public trust and electoral integrity.
“The AI-generated deepfakes of Taylor Swift are yet another example of AI’s power to create misinformation that deceives and defrauds voters,” said Lisa Gilbert, co-president of Public Citizen, a progressive consumer rights advocacy group pushing for AI regulation. “The potential harms to our society that could result from such misinformation, including abuses of our elections, are wide-reaching and immensely damaging.”
Swift herself has not commented on the 2024 election but supported Biden-Harris in 2020 and criticized Trump. Her influential support could potentially swing voter sentiment, with certain fans even declaring their support for Trump following his AI-generated posts. However, prominent conservatives have warned Swift against involving herself in politics.
The increasing prevalence of AI-generated content has prompted new legislative measures. Tennessee’s ELVIS Act is one such initiative, aimed at protecting artists from unauthorized AI-based imitations. Yet, more extensive, clear guidelines are necessary to address the rapid advancements in AI technology.
Doug Heye, a longtime Republican spokesperson and operative, commented, “This is how he and the campaign can wrest back news cycles. I hesitate to say to their credit, but I think we all know, if you want to be talked about, Taylor Swift is a great way to do it.” This quote encapsulates the political strategy behind utilizing high-profile figures like Taylor Swift to divert attention and gain media traction.
https://t.co/MlIKklPSJT pic.twitter.com/Mcbf2xozsY
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 25, 2023
The FEC’s reluctance to develop new guidelines this election cycle and the FCC’s focus on traditional media leave a regulatory gap concerning social media. Research indicates a rising trend in AI-generated disinformation, with AI-created images of Trump and other political figures being widely viewed on social media platforms. Addressing this issue is critical to preserving the integrity of future elections.
The rapid ease with which AI can generate lifelike content makes it a potent tool for misinformation. Researchers at the Center for Countering Digital Hate have demonstrated how simple it is to create convincing deepfakes using popular AI programs. As the election approaches, experts predict an uptick in AI-generated deepfakes targeting specific voter blocs in key swing states, thereby amplifying the potential for voter manipulation.
