AI ‘deepfake’ ads attack Massie and Gallrein in northern Kentucky GOP primary

In a contentious Republican primary in northern Kentucky, deepfake videos emerged targeting congressional candidates Thomas Massie and Ed Gallrein. The AI-generated videos, increasingly prevalent in political campaigns nationwide, have ignited controversy despite a state law intended to regulate their use.

What happened

One ad, created by MAGA KY PAC, depicted Massie in a fabricated video holding hands with Democratic Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ilhan Omar as they entered a hotel. The ad included a disclaimer stating it was satirical and created with AI. Another ad, from Kentucky 4th PAC, portrayed Gallrein fleeing from a Trump rally and a battlefield. This ad did not include a disclosure. Both candidates criticized the ads, with Massie calling the attack "beyond the pale" and Gallrein's spokesperson denouncing the ad as an "insult to all veterans."