Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping political advertising in Texas this election season. A recent report from The New York Times estimates that $147 million has been spent on TV spots created with AI, many of which feature images and audio that do not exist.
Local examples of AI‑generated ads
Among the most striking examples aired this year are a video of Senate candidate James Talarico seemingly reading a Bible with AI‑generated narration, a fabricated clip of Senator John Cornyn on vacation, and a montage that appears to show former Senate candidate Jasmine Crockett dancing with Cornyn. None of the footage was captured in reality; the visuals and voices were produced by computer algorithms.
Why AI is appealing to campaign operatives
Al Tompkins, an author and journalist who trains reporters on AI, explains that the technology is attractive because it is cheap and efficient. “Artificial intelligence allows you to have, for example, people saying things without having to go out and actually get people to say things,” Tompkins said. “You’re able to show your opponent in the worst possible circumstances without actually having video of them.”
Risks of a new era of deception
Tompkins warns that AI also gives viewers an excuse to dismiss real statements they dislike. “‘I don’t like that, it must be AI.’ When it wasn’t AI, they actually did say that, they actually did do that,” he noted. He adds that the technology is pushing public discourse from “skepticism to cynicism,” where people may begin to reject any truth that conflicts with their pre‑existing beliefs.
How to spot AI‑generated content
Some ads include subtle giveaways, such as garbled lettering on a prison uniform or a corrections officer’s badge. However, Tompkins says the quality of AI‑generated media is improving, making those clues harder to spot. He offers viewers a checklist: look for unnatural lip‑sync, inconsistent lighting, and text that appears slightly distorted.
Legal backdrop in Texas
Texas law currently requires that AI‑generated or deep‑fake political ads not air within 30 days of an election. The law does not mandate a disclosure that AI was used, and Tompkins suggests that requirement could be challenged in court. As the election approaches, watchdog groups are monitoring compliance, but enforcement mechanisms remain limited.
What this means for Texas voters
For undecided voters, the proliferation of AI ads represents a new battlefield. Attack ads aim to sow doubt about opponents by presenting fabricated scenarios that appear authentic. Tompkins cautions that the public must remain vigilant and demand transparency from campaigns.
While the technology offers cost savings for political operatives, it also threatens the integrity of public discourse. As the 2026 elections draw near, Texas voters should be aware of the growing role of AI in political messaging and consider supporting legislation that requires clear labeling of synthetic media.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
