Republicans Share AI-Generated Trump Images in Animal Misinformation Campaign

Republicans used an AI-generated image of Donald Trump cuddling kittens and ducks to support false claims about Haitian immigrants. Here’s how AI is reshaping political misinformation.

A Surreal Political Message: Trump, AI, and Cuddly Animals

An AI-generated image of Donald Trump cradling a kitten and a duck while chest-deep in water was recently posted on the official account of the Republican House Judiciary Committee. The accompanying caption read: “Protect our kittens and ducks in Ohio!”

Although the post did not disclose that the image was made using artificial intelligence, the unnatural features of Trump, the duck, and the cat pointed to digital manipulation. Elon Musk later reshared the image with a heart emoji, amplifying its reach.

What’s Behind the Cute Animal Propaganda?

This bizarre image isn’t just about animals. It’s tied to a growing right-wing conspiracy theory. Some conservative influencers have been spreading a baseless claim that Haitian immigrants are killing and eating pets in the U.S., particularly in Ohio. Despite lacking credible sources, this narrative gained traction across social media.

The image of Trump hugging animals appears designed to appeal emotionally to viewers while fueling anti-immigrant sentiment. Though it seems humorous on the surface, the underlying implications are serious.

The Origin of the Rumours: False Claims and Viral Misinformation

The misinformation wave began when Malaysian-based right-wing influencer Ian Miles Cheong posted a video claiming that a Haitian immigrant killed and ate a neighbour’s cat in Canton, Ohio. Despite offering no proof, his tweet reached over a million followers.

Soon after, other users began posting AI-generated or misleading images. One showed a man holding a goose, which they said was “proof” of Haitians stealing animals. A Facebook screenshot claimed immigrants were “stealing and eating pets” from a local park in Springfield, Ohio.

Reality Check: Law Enforcement Debunks the Claims

These disturbing accusations, however, lack any verification from law enforcement. The Springfield News-Sun reported that local police have no evidence or reports of animal theft by Haitian immigrants. They stated such claims aren’t even “on their radar.”

Additionally, the cat-killing case in Canton involved Alexis Ferrell, a 27-year-old resident. Fox News and others never identified Ferrell as Haitian, and online records show she has lived in the U.S. long before the Biden administration.

AI as a Political Weapon: Spreading False Narratives

Despite the debunking of these claims, prominent conservative figures like Charlie Kirk and Benny Johnson continued to stoke the flames. Their posts linked immigration to pet abuse, even though no verified connections exist.

This isn’t a one-off incident. Right-wing accounts are increasingly using AI-generated images and stories to dramatise their messages. The Trump-cat-duck image from the Judiciary Committee adds fuel to the misinformation fire.

The Danger of Official Disinformation

It’s deeply concerning that a powerful congressional committee tasked with upholding the law would circulate AI-created images that validate false, racially charged rumours. This reflects a troubling trend in American politics: the blending of AI tools with disinformation to emotionally manipulate voters.

Other AI-generated images followed quickly. One showed Trump jumping from a helicopter to “rescue” kittens. Another featured him surrounded by oddly shaped animals in a lifeboat. These posts went viral on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), with hashtags like #ProtectTheKittens and #SaveTheDucks.

Immigration Reality vs. Right-Wing Fiction

Springfield, Ohio, has seen a rise in Haitian immigrants, many fleeing violence back home. However, local police confirmed that they’ve received no credible complaints about stolen pets.

Still, AI-generated images, wild accusations, and viral posts dominate the conversation. And the Republican-led committee added its official voice to the chaos without evidence or accountability.

What’s the Endgame?

This incident signals a dangerous shift in political communication. When elected officials use AI to create emotional propaganda based on fabricated threats, it undermines truth, democracy, and public trust.

Trump, now fully aligned with AI-driven messaging, is becoming the visual centrepiece of these campaigns. Whether it’s intentional misinformation or reckless digital storytelling, AI is no longer a tool, it’s a weapon.

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