Drag Queen Whose Image Was Used Without Permission in AI-Powered Political Ad May Pursue Legal Action

According to statements from attorneys, Nova, a drag queen whose image was used without permission in an AI-powered political ad funded by the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) and endorsed by Republican candidate Jennifer Balkcom in North Carolina, is preparing to take legal steps.

The drag queen known by the stage name Nova in Asheville stated that her image was used without authorization in an AI-generated attack ad targeting Democratic congressional candidate Jamie Ager. While the ad depicts drag queens alongside candidate Ager in a barn dance scene, Nova stated that she has never met the Democratic candidate and has never been to that property, demanding the removal of the advertisement.

First Amendment attorney Mike Tadych stated that Nova has sent a cease-and-desist letter to the campaign team, and if the notice is ignored, a misappropriation lawsuit could be filed. Dr. Chris Cooper from the University of North Carolina noted that there is no law in the state mandating the disclosure of artificial intelligence usage in political advertisements.