Overview
- Sen. John Cornyn’s campaign released an AI-generated parody of the B‑52s’ “Love Shack” that mocks Ken Paxton’s past scandals, including the “Dave P.” Uber alias and alleged extramarital affairs.
- The B‑52s said the song was used without approval, called the ad tasteless and illegal, disavowed both candidates, and formally demanded the ad be taken down.
- Texas law restricting deepfakes in campaign ads applies only to state races, and there are currently no comprehensive federal rules governing AI content in federal campaigns.
- Paxton’s campaign did not provide a response to reporters’ questions about the ad as of the latest coverage.
- The runoff remains tight, with a recent Policy Poll showing Paxton leading Cornyn 45% to 42%, and both campaigns or allies have previously used AI in political videos.