AI-aided “ghost creators” flood YouTube with scripted anti-Democrat videos
A network of YouTube channels run by paid actors and AI-generated scripts is producing sensationalist videos that target progressive politicians, amassing millions of views.
For months a cluster of YouTube channels has been publishing straight-to-camera videos that appear to be citizen-run news recaps but are actually performed by hired actors reading AI-assisted scripts. The videos consistently target progressive officeholders, using exaggerated headlines and repetitive music to attract clicks. Researchers traced the operation to a growth-hacking company founded by Caleb Chan, whose Virelox service creates and manages hundreds of such “ghost creator” accounts.
Chan’s firm advertises rapid video turnaround and low-cost advertising, claiming billions of monthly views and high engagement. Politicians’ staff, including those of Gov. Gavin Newsom, have expressed concern over the misinformation and its role in deepening partisan divides. YouTube has responded by taking down several of the implicated channels after a prior report highlighted the issue.
Why it matters
The scheme shows how cheap AI tools and freelance labor can amplify partisan misinformation at scale.
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