Mockery with AI, Russian interference, and extremism: toxic campaigns at the service of algorithms

Social media plays a crucial role in elections, serving both to mobilize voters and manipulate perceptions. In Brazil, Lula's campaign effectively organized supporters via a massive WhatsApp group. Conversely, the Republican candidate Ken Paxton used AI-generated videos to misrepresent his opponent, James Talarico, although this tactic failed. As Spain approaches its elections, concerns about misinformation and foreign interference rise. Social platforms are significant sources of political information, especially for younger voters. However, studies indicate that while social media can increase engagement, their direct impact on voting behavior is limited. The algorithms favor emotionally charged and divisive content, often benefiting populist right-wing parties. This trend raises questions about the nature of political discourse and the effectiveness of traditional campaigning methods.