Hundreds of AI-generated influencer accounts promoting pro-Trump and “America First” messaging have rapidly appeared on social media in the months leading up to the midterm elections.
The accounts feature attractive, realistic-looking men and women delivering commentary on topics such as the war in Iran, abortion, and pop culture while flirting with the camera. President Trump has reposted content from at least one of them — a platinum-blond avatar spreading false claims about California’s governor.
The New York Times identified at least 304 such accounts on TikTok since January, many of which have since vanished. Researchers from Purdue University’s GRAIL lab found another dozen across TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, while digital threat firm Alethea identified nine more on YouTube. Several accounts have gained over 35,000 followers, with individual posts exceeding 500,000 views. None were labeled as AI-generated.
Researchers noted the effort appears aimed at engaging conservative audiences already receptive to meme-style and influencer-driven political content. No comparable network of left-leaning AI influencers was found.
TikTok said it reviewed the accounts flagged by The Times and determined they were not part of a covert influence operation, but rather “spammers” seeking engagement. The platform stated it is in the process of removing them.