Washington, Oct 2 (HS) : US Vice President JD Vance has defended President Donald Trump’s use of AI-manipulated videos mocking Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, calling them a “joke,” even as the clips drew sharp accusations of racism and bigotry from Democrats.
Trump posted altered videos on his Truth Social platform, showing Jeffries with a sombrero, handlebar mustache, and mariachi music — visuals replayed Wednesday on big screens inside the White House press briefing room. Jeffries, an African-American lawmaker whose mother’s roots trace to Cape Verde, condemned the videos as “disgusting.”
Vance, however, shrugged off the criticism, telling reporters that “the president’s joking and we’re having a good time.” He argued the mockery did not undermine negotiations over the government shutdown, now in its second day, saying: “You can negotiate in good faith while having a little fun at the absurdities of Democrats’ positions.”
The incident highlights Trump’s continued use of digital manipulation to ridicule rivals, reigniting debates about racism and the role of AI in political discourse. Democratic leaders have demanded accountability, warning that such portrayals worsen racial stereotyping at a moment of deep partisan divides.
Trump, who has long drawn fire for racially charged remarks, has yet to address the backlash, while Republicans sought to dismiss the uproar as lighthearted satire.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
