US Vice President Vance Expresses “Entirely Unacceptable” Concerns Over AI-Generated Sexual Imagery on X
The US Vice President has reportedly voiced strong disapproval of the proliferation of AI-generated sexualized images, particularly those targeting women and children, on platforms like X. This comes as a growing transatlantic dispute intensifies over X’s artificial intelligence chatbot, Grok, and its capacity to manipulate images.
The escalating controversy centers on the use of Grok to create non-consensual, sexually explicit content, prompting calls for action from both sides of the Atlantic. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has warned that X could be blocked in the UK if the platform fails to address the issue, labeling the generated images as “unlawful” and “disgusting.”
Transatlantic Tensions Rise
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy revealed that he discussed the matter with Vice President Vance during a meeting in Washington on Thursday. According to Lammy, Vance – typically recognized as an advocate for artificial intelligence – expressed significant concern over how the technology is being exploited to produce what he termed “hyper-pornographied slop” online.
“We discussed Greenland and I also raised with him the Grok issue and the horrendous, horrific situation in which this new technology is allowing deepfakes and the manipulation of images of women and children, which is just absolutely abhorrent,” Lammy stated on Friday. “He agreed with me that it was entirely unacceptable.”
Lammy further indicated that Vance appeared “sympathetic” to the UK’s position on the matter, adding that they had been in contact again on the same issue. Vance reportedly confirmed he had observed changes announced by X as of Friday morning.
X’s Response and Continued Concerns
On Friday, X appeared to modify Grok’s settings, restricting image manipulation requests to paid subscribers. However, reports suggest these limitations are not comprehensive, with alternative methods for creating and editing images – including through a separate Grok website – remaining accessible.
The situation has ignited a political firestorm. Supporters of the US president, including Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna, have threatened sanctions against the UK should a ban on X be implemented. Elon Musk, owner of X, responded to the potential ban by accusing the British government of seeking “any excuse for censorship” and labeling it “fascist.”
Broader Geopolitical Context
Lammy and Vance’s meeting occurred during a period of heightened sensitivity in US-UK relations. The discussion extended beyond the issue of AI-generated imagery, encompassing topics such as the war in Ukraine, the situation in Venezuela, and ongoing tensions surrounding Greenland, following renewed claims by the US president.
Lammy emphasized the increasing strain on international laws and codes in a “multipolar world,” stating, “We’re realists, and must accept that we’re now living in a multipolar world. It’s a world no longer where there’s just one superpower and the members of the [UN] security council. And so, of course, the rule of law is under tremendous strain. And we lose it, it seems to me, at our peril.”
A Developing Personal Relationship & Domestic Political Challenges
The exchange between Lammy and Vance reflects a developing personal relationship. Last year, the Vice President and his family vacationed with Lammy, culminating in an unlicensed fishing trip. The two men share a bond forged through their challenging upbringings and shared faith, with Lammy having attended Mass in Washington at Vance’s invitation in March 2025.
However, Lammy also faces domestic political headwinds. As the newly appointed justice secretary and deputy prime minister, he is preparing to implement sweeping changes to the British court system, including the cancellation of thousands of jury trials. This move has sparked criticism from within his own party, with MP Karl Turner expressing strong opposition and accusing the prime minister of acting shamefully.
The unfolding situation underscores the complex challenges posed by rapidly evolving AI technology and the urgent need for international cooperation to address its potential harms.
