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Trait: Data and algorithms are used to manipulate, not serve, the public ×
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Jan 20, 2026 White House posted a digitally altered image of an arrested protester to make her appear crying Tier 1 · Primary Information, Memory and Manipulation
Analysis found the administration published a manipulated photograph darkening the subject's skin and fabricating tears, using state channels to spread disinformation about a criminal defendant.
Independently corroborated by4 independent news desks
Supporting reportingSurfacings — do not carry alone
Supporting reports
- White House posted AI-altered image of arrested protester — The White House posted an image of arrested protester Nekima Levy-Armstrong on social media following her arrest. The image was altered using artificial intelligence to show her crying hysterically, whereas the original photograph from the scene showed her appearing defiant. The discrepancy was quickly noticed by observers.
- White House posted AI-generated images of arrested Minneapolis protesters — The White House posted what appear to be AI-generated images connected to ongoing arrests of protesters in Minneapolis, including an AI-altered image depicting a protest organizer with tears streaming down her face. The original image shows no such thing. This represents a deeply unethical abuse of federal government power, effectively manufacturing visual narratives to intimidate, discredit, or prejudice individuals before they have had their day in court.
- White House posts digitally altered image of arrested activist on social media — The White House posted a digitally altered photograph of activist Nekima Levy Armstrong on social media, manipulating the image to falsely portray her as crying and darkening her skin. The caption falsely described her as an "arrested far-left agitator" who "orchestrated church riots." The deception was uncovered by the Guardian and other news outlets after Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem had posted the original, unaltered image showing Armstrong composed and dignified.
- White House posts digitally altered image of arrested protester — The White House posted a digitally altered photograph of Nekima Levy Armstrong, arrested during an ICE protest disruption in St. Paul, Minnesota on January 23, 2026. The altered image depicted her crying, whereas the original showed her composed. Guardian analysis confirmed the images were identical except for digital manipulation of her facial expression and apparent skin tone. The White House did not deny the alteration when questioned, instead responding with a statement defending law enforcement.
- White House posts doctored photo of arrested Minneapolis activist — The White House posted a digitally altered photograph of Nekima Levy Armstrong, a Black woman arrested during a protest at a Minneapolis church on January 23, 2026. The image darkened her skin tone and added tears to her face. Armstrong is one of three people arrested in connection with the disruptive protest. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem had posted unaltered images of the other two defendants, but only Armstrong's image was manipulated by the White House. Legal experts say the act may be raised in court but is unlikely to derail the case entirely.
Attacks
Verified: Tier 1 primary record
Week 53 – 2026-01-17–2026-01-23
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