Trump Shares AI-Generated Video Promoting ‘Medbed’ Conspiracy Theory
On Sunday, former U.S. President Donald Trump shared an artificial intelligence (AI)-generated video on his Truth Social account that promoted the highly controversial and debunked “medbed” conspiracy theory. The video features a digitally altered version of Trump announcing a new healthcare system based on “medbed hospitals,” claiming that “every American will soon receive their own MedBed card.”
The AI deepfake video imitates Trump’s voice with a robotic intonation and portrays him saying: “With it, you’ll have access to our new hospitals led by the top doctors in the nation.” Despite the sophisticated appearance, several clear markers reveal the clip as fake, including low-resolution video quality, unnatural voice modulation, and an incorrect Fox News chyron font. However, these inaccuracies were insufficient to prevent the video from gaining traction and fooling some viewers, including possibly the former president himself or whoever manages his social media presence.
“Medbeds” or “medical beds” are the subject of a well-known conspiracy theory alleging the existence of advanced beds capable of instantly curing any illness, regenerating lost limbs, reversing aging, and more. According to this conspiracy, these devices are secret technologies kept hidden in underground military tunnels and are accessible only to elites or deep-state members. Various far-right communities and QAnon influencers have circulated medbed claims through platforms like Telegram, Discord, and Rumble.
Despite numerous debunkings and the absence of any scientific validation, some companies attempt to capitalize on the idea by selling pseudoscientific products purportedly linked to medbeds, often accompanied by legal disclaimers acknowledging their unproven status. The conspiracy also involves far-fetched narratives, such as former President John F. Kennedy still living on a medbed. The spread of such claims raises concern over misinformation, especially when amplified by influential political figures.
The Independent noted that no official statement or clarification was issued by the White House or Trump’s social media channels following the video release to acknowledge or refute the video’s authenticity or its contents. The episode underscores challenges in combating disinformation and the risks posed by AI deepfakes that can create realistic yet fabricated statements allegedly from public officials.
Experts emphasize the importance of critical media literacy and careful verification of viral content, particularly involving AI technology that can fabricate convincing but false narratives. As artificial intelligence tools become increasingly accessible, the potential for similar misinformation incidents is likely to grow.