Trump Shares Racist AI Video Targeting Schumer, Jeffries Amid Government Shutdown Talks

As the US government nears a potential shutdown, President Donald Trump posted an AI-generated deepfake video on social media mocking top Democratic leaders House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. The video portrays Jeffries in a sombrero and mustache with mariachi music playing, while a doctored voice attributed to Schumer criticizes the Democratic Party for being unpopular due to "woke" policies and suggests offering free healthcare to undocumented immigrants to secure votes. The video, widely condemned by Democrats as racist and bigoted, was shared shortly after a failed White House meeting involving Trump, Schumer, Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and House Speaker Mike Johnson aimed at averting the shutdown. Schumer and Jeffries responded firmly on social media, emphasizing their commitment to protecting healthcare and criticizing Republicans for their budget cuts. The standoff highlights deep partisan divisions, with Democrats demanding healthcare funding as a condition to keep the government open, while Republicans warn of funding cuts to programs like WIC and FEMA if a shutdown occurs. This incident reflects ongoing political tensions and cultural warfare amidst critical budget negotiations.