City communications director demos AI deepfake that simulates mayor, warns of misinformation risks

The city's communications coordinator, identified in the meeting as Fedra, demonstrated an AI-generated video that realistically simulated Mayor Henry Pace and used the example to warn council and the public about the growing risk of deepfakes and AI-driven misinformation.

Why it matters: The demonstration showed how inexpensive and accessible tools can create convincing synthetic video and audio; the coordinator argued the city nd local journalists must prioritize human-led, verified reporting to preserve public trust.

Fedra told the council the video was created with an AI platform called Argyll that can produce a simulated avatar using as little as a short clip and a photograph. In the demonstration the avatar issued a false citywide alert instructing citizens to shelter in place; Fedra said the clip was produced from free trials and common tools and emphasized how convincingly an actor could be replicated. "All it requires... 30 seconds of recorded audio to accurately simulate your voice," she said in the presentation.

Fedra cited broader trends: since 2005 more than 3,300 local print newspapers have closed nationally, and she quoted a 2024 UNESCO study (as cited in the presentation) claiming that a majority of social-media users often do not verify content before sharing. She said the city's communications team intentionally avoids AI-generated filler on its website and prioritizes original footage and human storytelling as a trust-building measure.

Next steps: The presentation underscored the need for local verification practices and public education about synthetic media. Council thanked the communications coordinator and no formal action was taken during the meeting.