Brazil's PT sues Bolsonaro family over AI video used in political convention

Brazil's Workers' Party (PT) has taken legal action against former President Jair Bolsonaro and his son, Flávio Bolsonaro, over the use of an artificial intelligence-generated video. The video, which depicted a simulated Jair Bolsonaro endorsing his son's presidential bid, was shown at a convention for the Liberal Party (PL).

The PT filed complaints with both the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) and the Supreme Federal Court (STF). The party alleges that the video constitutes illegal early electoral propaganda and a misuse of AI technology. Furthermore, they argue it violates a court order, as Jair Bolsonaro currently has his political rights suspended following a criminal conviction.

In their filing to the TSE, the PT requested a fine of R$30,000 (approximately $5,500 USD) against Flávio Bolsonaro's campaign and the removal of the video from social media platforms. The party contends that the video's realistic depiction of the former president, created by AI, lends it a deceptive authenticity and emotional impact, significantly influencing voters. The STF was also alerted to Bolsonaro's alleged non-compliance with judicial orders, given his current status of house arrest and prohibition from political commentary.

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It is not a simple manifestation of thought, but a political-electoral manifesto disseminated by third parties, created by artificial intelligence, denoting premeditation, coordination, and conscious disregard for the respectable judicial order.