DALLAS, Texas– A video using artificial intelligence to depict one of the candidates in the Dallas City Council runoff has drawn scrutiny from election observers and local officials, prompting concerns about misinformation and campaign ethics.
The video, described as a deepfake, surfaced online in the final stretch of the runoff campaign. It appears to show a candidate speaking and acting in a way that has not been independently verified. Both candidates in the race have denied involvement and condemned the use of AI-generated media in the election.
Deepfakes use machine learning to create realistic but altered video or audio content. Their presence in political campaigns has raised concerns nationwide about the potential for misleading voters.
The incident comes as the Texas Legislature considers new rules to regulate AI in political advertising. The Texas House recently passed House Bill 366, which would require political ads using AI-generated content to carry a disclaimer. If enacted, the bill would make it a criminal offense to distribute AI-modified campaign materials without disclosure. Fines could reach $4,000 per violation.
Supporters of the bill argue it would increase transparency and help voters make informed decisions. Opponents, including some free speech advocates, have raised questions about how such rules would be enforced and whether they could impact political expression.
The source of the Dallas video has not been publicly identified. The City Secretary’s Office has not announced any investigation, but election officials have said they are aware of the situation.
The runoff election is scheduled to proceed as planned. Local and state officials continue to monitor the use of emerging technologies in campaign activity.
