Glenn Beck’s Use of George A.I. and Founding Fathers

Late last year, conservative commentator Glenn Beck realized a longstanding fantasy for many right-wing supporters: bringing a founding father back to life. In a video, Beck sat across George Washington in a podcast studio setting. This version of Washington was different, with a modern look that included a tight T-shirt and updated hairstyle, resembling more a contemporary businessman than a historical figure. This was George A.I.

The promise of George A.I., and artificial intelligence in general, according to its advocates, is access to irrefutable truth. However, AI is always the result of its underlying data. Beck created a large language model, drawing from his library of founding documents, reportedly the third-largest globally. He also included influential texts like the Bible and Blackstone’s ratio. George A.I., described as a ‘librarian,’ can produce content that resembles Ken Burns-style podcasts on questions about America’s beginnings.

When Beck queries George A.I. about today’s societal issues, it declares a ‘moral failing.’ It notes Americans are quick to discard institutions and distrust ‘truth.’ Imagery includes protest signs related to trans children, indicating influence from Blaze Media, Beck’s media company. Beck claims his views are closely aligned with the founding fathers, more so than George A.I.

In March, shortly after U.S. strikes against Iran, Beck shared another video with George A.I., curious about Washington’s advice on the matter. Although Washington’s warnings were against foreign entanglements, Beck pondered if showcasing ‘strength’ might be necessary to avoid conflicts. George A.I. offered opinions similar to Beck’s ideas, framed as a reflection on Jefferson’s battle against Barbary pirates over 200 years ago.

In today’s era of debate and public performances, invoking the founding fathers is a common tactic on the right. Figures like Candace Owens reference them as moral guides for Black Americans, stating they were ‘set free’ but then ‘re-submitted to slavery’ through absent fathers and welfare. Similarly, Ben Shapiro appeals to their original intent to oppose same-sex marriage.