California Governor Gavin Newsom Hits Back at Trump’s Deepfake Videos Using AI-Created JD Vance Roast
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In a recent turn of events, Governor Gavin Newsom of California has retaliated against President Donald Trump’s deepfake videos by releasing his own series of AI-generated videos mocking Vice President JD Vance. The governor’s actions come amidst heightened tensions between the two political figures.
Newsom, known for his active social media presence, has taken a page from Trump’s playbook by adopting a similar posting style on platforms like Truth Social. This includes using all-caps and engaging in online banter characteristic of the former president’s online behaviour.
The governor’s response escalated after Trump faced backlash for sharing a racist deepfake video of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. In a strategic move to challenge the president’s use of AI technology, Newsom’s team began circulating their own deepfake videos, with one featuring a satirical portrayal of JD Vance discussing the history of couches.
The video titled “A History of Couches” plays on a debunked rumour surrounding Vance’s memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, where he was falsely accused of disclosing intimate details about his couches. The AI-generated clip humorously showcases Vance praising the Chesterfield sofa design, subtly poking fun at the baseless allegations against him.
Newsom’s online jabs did not stop there, with additional deepfake videos targeting Vance’s personal scandals and controversies. The governor’s digital campaign aimed to highlight the absurdity of using deepfake technology for political mudslinging, while also underscoring the need for responsible online behaviour.
The ongoing exchange between Newsom and Trump reflects the evolving landscape of political communication and social media engagement. The use of deepfake videos as a tool for political satire underscores the power dynamics at play in today’s digital age, where misinformation and manipulation can spread rapidly.
Beyond the tit-for-tat between Newsom and Trump, the incident sheds light on the broader implications of AI technology in shaping public discourse and perception. As deepfake technology becomes more sophisticated and accessible, the potential for misuse and abuse in the political arena raises concerns about misinformation and deception.
In conclusion, Governor Gavin Newsom’s response to President Donald Trump’s deepfake videos serves as a poignant commentary on the intersection of technology, politics, and media in the modern era. The episode underscores the importance of critical thinking and digital literacy in navigating the complex landscape of online information and communication. As the political landscape continues to evolve, it remains crucial for public figures and policymakers to uphold ethical standards and transparency in their use of technology for public discourse.