Suffolk Council Removes Councillor for Sharing Sexualised AI Image

Suffolk County Council leader Michael Hadwen removed Councillor Christopher Hudson from his cabinet position as member for highways and transport with immediate effect. The decision followed Hudson's sharing of a sexualised AI-generated deepfake of fellow cabinet member June Mummery on X. The image depicted Mummery with exaggerated physical features and a low-cut top or sequined bra, accompanied by text referencing a council u-turn on school nursing services.

Hudson apologized for any offence caused, claiming the post was intended as a "girl power" message that Mummery supported. He later characterized his removal as a "political witch-hunt" and argued that the incident resulted from poor judgment and misfired humor rather than malicious conduct. Mummery declined to comment on the matter.

Opposition councillors from the Green, Conservative, and Labour groups condemned the act as a violation of digital safety and a sign of disrespect toward women in public life. Conservative shadow spokeswoman Debbie McCallum supported the removal but called for a full investigation and further sanctions. Hadwen has since appointed Councillor Patti Mulcahy to fill the highways and transport portfolio.