Key facts
- OpenAI detected Chinese propagandists using ChatGPT to influence US policy debates.
- The operations aimed to generate opposition to Donald Trump's tariffs and influence discussions on data centers and AI.
- Content included slogans, cartoons, and comments critical of US trade and tech policies.
- A Chinese tech company was linked to attempts to influence AI and data center debates.
- OpenAI stated the influence operations, active from late 2025 to early 2026, had minimal impact.
OpenAI reported that Chinese propagandists attempted to use its ChatGPT chatbot to influence U.S. policy debates, including opposition to Donald Trump's tariffs and discussions around data centers and artificial intelligence. The company stated that these operations, which occurred from late 2025 to early 2026, appeared to have had minimal impact. One set of Chinese-speaking users reportedly used ChatGPT to create slogans and cartoons critical of U.S. trade and technology policies, which were later posted on X. This group also generated comments for Chinese-language articles and content in Italian and Japanese. OpenAI also identified another group, linked to a Chinese tech company involved in government work, that attempted to influence debates concerning AI and data center construction. Ben Nimmo, an OpenAI investigator, noted the irony of using American AI to manipulate discussions on U.S. tech policies. The Chinese Embassy in Washington denied the accusations, stating they oppose groundless attacks and smears against China.