NRCC Defends AI-Generated Attack Ad Targeting Democratic Candidate Jamie Ager

The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) funded an advertisement that uses artificial intelligence to depict Democratic congressional candidate Jamie Ager dancing with a likeness of Asheville drag performer Nova at a barn-dance setting. Nova, whose image was used without permission, demanded the ad’s removal and issued a cease-and-desist letter to the Balkcom campaign.

Newsweek

The ad references a six-hour, fantasy-themed festival held in May 2019 at Ager’s family property, Hickory Nut Gap Farm. The event was open to children and listed the Asheville-based drag and advocacy group Beer City Sisters among other entertainers, but it did not specifically advertise a drag performance or name “Sister Domina Trix” or “Sister Helen Bedd.” A fact-check by *The News & Observer* found no evidence that Nova or the other named performers attended, a claim echoed by an Ager campaign spokesperson.

Newsweek

NRCC spokesperson Reilly Richardson told *Newsweek* the committee stands by the ad and asserted compliance with North Carolina law, which does not require disclosure of AI use in political ads. Richardson reiterated the same position to Spectrum News 1. Ager responded on social media that his opponent is resorting to “fake AI generated lies.” Nova told local outlet WLOS that she had never met Ager or visited his property and warned that the ability to falsify events with AI poses a broader threat to her community.

Newsweek

First-Amendment attorney Mike Tadych cautioned that while Nova could pursue a misappropriation claim over the unauthorized use of her likeness, political advertisements enjoy substantial First-Amendment protection. WYFF4 reported that Nova and fellow performer Divine Holeburn gave the NRCC and Balkcom campaign until November 2 to cease using their likenesses, or face potential legal action. The election for North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District is scheduled for November 3.

Newsweek

• “Our opponent is attacking us with 100 percent fake AI generated lies,” — Jamie Ager

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• “I’m running a campaign based on the deep values we have here in Western North Carolina around politics that’s good for people, that builds up our community, and it makes a better future for our kids and the people that live here in Western North Carolina.” — Jamie Ager

Newsweek

• “Get ready because this media storm is far from over.” — Scary Situation’ Nova

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