Deepfake Video by Spain's Opposition Party Sparks Outrage Ahead of Election

• •The People's Party released a deepfake video depicting Socialist party figures making false admissions.
• •The video has nearly 2 million views and has sparked legal challenges and public outrage.
• •Experts believe the video is not illegal but raise ethical concerns regarding its impact on public perception.

A deepfake video released by Spain's conservative People's Party (PP) has caused significant backlash as it depicts political figures linked to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's Socialist party making false admissions of misconduct. The video, which has garnered nearly 2 million views since its release on October 23, 2026, features AI-generated likenesses of Sánchez’s wife, Begoña Gómez, and former Socialist Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero. The content suggests they engaged in illegal activities, referencing ongoing investigations they have denied. Critics, including Spain’s Digital Transformation Minister Óscar López, argue that the video blurs the line between reality and fiction, particularly for viewers unfamiliar with AI technology. Legal action has been initiated by Leire Díez, a former Socialist member, claiming defamation and digital identity theft. While legal experts consulted by El País stated the video is not illegal due to its AI label and satirical tone, ethical concerns about its appropriateness remain prevalent.