Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has offered rare praise for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., crediting him as "instrumental" in securing bipartisan support for the DEFIANCE Act. The legislation, co-authored by Ocasio-Cortez and Graham, aims to provide legal recourse for victims of nonconsensual AI-generated deepfake pornography.
The DEFIANCE Act passed the Senate by unanimous consent in January. Ocasio-Cortez noted Graham's crucial role in advancing the bill, despite their frequent political disagreements on issues such as foreign policy and defense spending.
"Senator Graham and Senator Hawley as well were instrumental in securing bipartisan support for this legislation to protect kids, women, everyone from nonconsensual AI-developed porn," Ocasio-Cortez told The Independent.
The bill's path forward in the House of Representatives remains uncertain. It was referred to the House Judiciary Committee, chaired by Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, on May 21, 2025, the same day Ocasio-Cortez introduced the measure.
"So when it comes to the House, I think we just gotta ask Jim Jordan," Ocasio-Cortez stated.
If enacted, the DEFIANCE Act would permit victims of nonconsensual AI deepfake pornography to file civil actions in federal district court. Successful plaintiffs could be awarded damages, including $150,000 in liquidated damages, or $250,000 if the conduct was linked to actual or attempted sexual assault, stalking, or harassment, or directly caused such behavior. The bill also allows for injunctive relief, such as restraining orders or injunctions compelling the deletion or cessation of the distribution of such material.
The effort has also garnered support from public figures like Paris Hilton. 
