As the Democratic National Convention (DNC) kicked off in Chicago, former President Donald Trump aimed a last-minute blow at Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump posted an AI-generated image on Truth Social showing Harris addressing a crowd beneath a hammer-and-sickle flag, a symbol of the Soviet Union. The image, marked with “Chicago” in bold red letters, was designed to link Harris with communism, a familiar tactic in Trump’s strategy against her.
Irony in AI Accusations
This digital assault is particularly ironic given that just a week earlier, Trump had falsely accused Harris’s campaign of using AI to inflate crowd sizes at her Detroit event. Now, Trump himself is employing AI, the very technology he criticized, to fuel his campaign. Over the weekend, he also shared another AI image of young women in “Swifties for Trump” T-shirts, highlighting his increasing reliance on AI-generated content.
AI’s Casual Political Use
Trump’s approach to AI is notable not for its sophistication but for its casual application. Unlike intricate deepfakes meant to deceive, these AI images are used more as rhetorical tools. They aren’t necessarily crafted to mislead but to reinforce political messaging. For instance, Trump’s AI image of Harris was later reposted on X, and Trump sent out an email to supporters claiming it was “the photo Kamala doesn’t want you to see.” This move reflects his broader strategy of undermining Harris as she gains momentum in the polls.
AI and Misinformation Concerns
Experts have long warned about AI’s potential to spread misinformation, with fears focused on highly realistic deepfakes. However, Trump’s use of AI highlights a more common scenario: the creation of less convincing images that circulate widely on social media. The AI-generated image of Harris as a communist leader plays into existing narratives, while the “Swifties for Trump” image, marked as satire, shows how AI can generate content that resonates with specific audiences even if it lacks factual accuracy.
The Impact of AI on the 2024 Election
With the 2024 election on the horizon, AI is set to play a crucial role in political campaigns. While advanced deepfakes are still challenging to create, simpler AI-generated images and memes are becoming more prevalent. These tools are not always accurate but are effective in shaping public perception and energizing supporters. Trump’s use of AI illustrates this trend, using technology to bolster his narrative and mobilize his base, even when the images are not entirely factual.
Harris and the DNC’s Big Stage
At the DNC in Chicago, Harris is slated to deliver a key speech on Thursday, presenting her vision for the future and countering Trump’s attacks. The convention, held at the United Center, is expected to attract over 50,000 attendees, including delegates, journalists, and high-profile speakers such as the Clintons, Obamas, and Jason Carter. Harris’s speech will mark the official launch of the Harris-Walz ticket, which will represent the Democrats in the upcoming election. Although President Joe Biden was initially set to headline, he has stepped down from the Democratic ticket, leaving him and First Lady Jill Biden to offer a message of unity.
Trump’s Counter Convention
In response to the DNC, Trump and his Republican allies are organizing their own convention at his Chicago hotel. This event will focus on key issues like immigration, crime, and the economy. Trump and running mate JD Vance will also host rallies and smaller events nationwide while Democrats gather in Chicago. This parallel convention underscores the polarized nature of American politics and the combative tone of the 2024 campaign season.
The Growing Role of AI in Politics
As AI technology evolves, its impact on political campaigns is becoming more significant. While we may see more advanced AI tools in the future, Trump’s current use of AI-generated images highlights how technology can shape political messaging. Whether for propaganda or persuasion, AI is increasingly integral to how campaigns communicate with voters, and its influence is set to grow in future elections.
