Fact Check: "Kramer admitted to delivering robocalls to thousands before the primary."
What We Know
Steven Kramer, a political consultant, admitted to orchestrating a campaign of robocalls that used artificial intelligence to mimic former President Joe Biden's voice. These calls were sent to thousands of voters just two days before the New Hampshire presidential primary on January 23, 2024. The calls suggested that voters should "save their vote for the November election," implying that participating in the primary would prevent them from voting in the general election (AP News, NHPR). Kramer testified that he aimed to raise awareness about the potential dangers of AI in political campaigns (NHPR).
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposed a penalty of $6 million against Kramer for his actions, indicating the seriousness of the violation (FCC). Although Kramer was acquitted of voter suppression charges, the admission of sending these robocalls is a critical aspect of the case (AP News).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that Kramer admitted to delivering robocalls to thousands of voters is substantial. Multiple credible sources confirm that Kramer orchestrated the robocalls and acknowledged his role in the process. For instance, the Associated Press reported on Kramer's admission during his trial, where he described the robocalls as a "wake-up call" regarding AI's influence in politics (AP News).
Additionally, the FCC's proposed penalty reinforces the notion that Kramer's actions were not only acknowledged by him but also deemed illegal by regulatory authorities (FCC). The reliability of these sources is high; the Associated Press is a well-respected news organization known for its journalistic integrity, while the FCC is a federal agency responsible for regulating communications in the U.S.
However, it is important to note that Kramer's defense argued that the primary was an unsanctioned event by the Democratic National Committee (DNC), which could complicate the legal implications of his actions (NHPR). This defense does not negate his admission but highlights the contentious nature of the legal proceedings surrounding the case.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "Kramer admitted to delivering robocalls to thousands before the primary" is true. Kramer himself acknowledged his role in sending out the robocalls, which were aimed at influencing voter behavior just days before the primary election. The corroborating reports from reliable news sources and the actions taken by the FCC further substantiate this claim.
Sources
- Federal Communications Commission FCC 24-59
- Consultant acquitted of AI robocall voter suppression charges
- Political operative who admitted to creating fake Biden robocalls found not guilty
- Trial begins for political consultant accused of sending AI-generated robocalls mimicking Biden
- Consultant on trial for AI-generated robocalls mimicking Biden says he has no regrets
- League of Women Voters of New Hampshire v. Kramer
- NH Biden AI robocall trial gets underway: Details from court
- Man accused of sending AI robocalls to NH primary voters