OpenAI Reports Chinese Propagandists Using ChatGPT to Stoke Anti-Trump Sentiment

OpenAI has discovered that Chinese propagandists are attempting to utilize its ChatGPT chatbot to create content that opposes Donald Trump's tariffs and sway discussions regarding data centers and AI. In a report released on Wednesday, the organization revealed that Chinese-speaking individuals requested ChatGPT to produce slogans and cartoons that criticized the US president's trade and technology policies, which were subsequently shared on X. The illustrations showed Trump engaging in disruptive actions, such as smashing a wall labeled 'Global Future' with a hammer and cutting a ladder he was on. Additionally, this group crafted Chinese comments for articles in Chinese and content in Italian and Japanese. OpenAI observed that these activities, which began in late 2025 and early 2026, seemed to have minimal impact. The Chinese embassy in Washington condemned any unfounded accusations against China and affirmed that Beijing aims to ensure AI contributes positively. This situation underscores the increasing significance of generative AI in digital influence initiatives.