Brazil President Lula bans AI use in re‑election campaign

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s re‑election team has decided to avoid any use of artificial intelligence for creating social‑media posts or campaign material. The move is intended to sidestep legal challenges and comply with the Brazilian Superior Electoral Court’s (TSE) rules that prohibit AI‑generated content in the 72 hours before and 24 hours after voting.

Lula publicly denounced the technology, saying, “Um cidadão que aprendeu a ter caráter com a Dona Lindu não aceitará IA para fazer campanha política. Vocês estão vendo na televisão: a verdade tarda, mas não falha. A mentira tem perna curta.” He also praised TSE minister Kassio Nunes Marques for tightening AI restrictions, noting that the ban helps preserve campaign integrity and prevents misinformation.

The campaign’s stance reflects a broader cautious approach toward digital tools in Brazil’s 2022 presidential race, aiming to keep the electoral debate grounded in traditional communication methods.