Briefing
Recent research by Spanish fact-checkers and media shows that AI-generated videos are being used systematically to promote claims of alleged election fraud — often called “Pucherazo“ means — in connection with the parliamentary election scheduled for 29 November 2026 to intensify. An investigation by Maldita.es identified several dozen videos in early October 2026 that appear to have been generated using AI and show scenes that manipulate viewers into believing in widespread postal-voting fraud. These videos were shared on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X, reaching broad audiences. (Maldita.es, 7 October 2026).
VerificaRTVE analysed more than 50,000 social media posts in which the term “Pucherazo” was circulating, according to the broadcaster, and concluded that profitable outrage-driven strategies and unsupported fraud allegations were being spread without reliable evidence. The RTVE analysis notes that the term is often used in politically charged narratives, without any actual evidence of systematic electoral fraud being presented. (RTVE, 12 October 2026).
Meanwhile, international reporting has covered business models that commercialise outrage content; an example from the US illustrated how quickly fabricated or apparently fabricated stories can generate reach and revenue. These developments show a link between automated media production and the mechanisms that amplify disinformation in electoral contexts. (20minutos/International reports, October 2026).
A reliable assessment still requires technical analyses of the clips in question, metadata checks by platforms, and transparent information about their origin and circulation. Until then, media outlets and authorities should use wording cautiously when unsupported allegations are presented as facts. Clear labelling of AI-generated content and coordinated checks by independent fact-checkers are essential to limit electoral interference and the spread of the “Pucherazo” narrative.
Editor: Daniel Mayer (Article created with AI assistance).