Full Breakdown
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick Accused of Using AI Deepfake Ads Against Opponent
By Drooid · · How we work
AI-Generated Ads Lead to Police Complaint
State Rep. Vikki Goodwin, the Democratic candidate for Texas lieutenant governor, filed a police report alleging that two artificial-intelligence-generated advertisements posted on incumbent Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s personal X account depicted her delivering statements she never made. Goodwin says the videos, released in September, misrepresented her stance on taxes and were intended to influence voters within the early-voting period for the November election.
Legal Background and Recent AI Campaign Use
Texas enacted a law in 2019 that criminalizes the creation of deep-fake videos of political candidates within 30 days of an election. Goodwin’s complaint asserts that Patrick’s ads violated this statute. Similar AI-generated attack ads have appeared in other Texas races, including an advertisement by Attorney General Ken Paxton that featured an AI-rendered image of his Democratic opponent James Talarico reading from a Bible.
Official Statements & Responses
Goodwin emphasized that the videos do not reflect her actual words and expressed concern that the ads could turn voters against her by suggesting she supports tax increases. The Travis County Sheriff’s Office confirmed receipt of Goodwin’s complaint but offered no further comment. Goodwin added that she hopes the state legislature will strengthen the law during the next session.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I did not personally do or say the things depicted in the video; although the 'person' in the video appears to be me, it was not actually me,” — State Rep. Vikki Goodwin
- “That was my concern. I actually say in all of my campaign speeches that I don't think we need to raise taxes.” — State Rep. Vikki Goodwin
- “I think Texans are sick of these AI ads trying to deceive voters,” — James Talarico
- “Although the ‘person’ in the video appears to be me, it was not actually me,” — Ms. Goodwin
What Comes Next
Goodwin’s filing may prompt a review by law-enforcement officials, and she has called on Texas legislators to consider tighter regulations on AI-generated political advertising in the upcoming legislative session.