Oklahoma state Rep. John Waldron, a Democrat who represents District 77 in the Tulsa area, has ended his re-election campaign following controversy surrounding an AI-generated image that depicted him in a fabricated romantic scenario.

Waldron, 57, announced on Facebook that he would not seek another term after filing for re-election earlier this month, describing the decision as “the right thing to do” for his constituents and part of an effort to “be a better person.”

The controversy stems from an incident in which Waldron acknowledged involvement with an AI-generated GIF that appeared to show him kissing a woman. Reporting indicates the image was created after Waldron met with a female prospective political candidate last fall and later used an AI tool to generate a manipulated depiction of the two.

According to NonDoc, the GIF was sent to the woman involved. Waldron has said the episode occurred during a period of personal stress and that he immediately regretted the action. He previously resigned as chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party in December over the matter.

In his public statements, Waldron said he has accepted responsibility and sought counseling. He wrote that he has been attending therapy sessions and intends to continue as part of what he described as a personal effort to improve his conduct and judgment.

Despite his decision to withdraw from the race and his repeated apologies, several Democratic lawmakers in Oklahoma have called for further action, including resignation from his legislative seat.

State Reps. Amanda Clinton, Michelle McCane, Cyndi Munson, and Suzanne Schreiber have publicly criticized Waldron’s conduct and urged him to step down from office immediately, with some describing his actions as incompatible with public trust.

Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairwoman Erin Brewer also called the behavior “unforgivable,” according to reports.

Waldron has served in the Oklahoma House since 2018 and previously worked as a high school history teacher. With his withdrawal from the race, Democratic candidate Kristina Gabriel is expected to run unopposed in the general election for the District 77 seat, which covers parts of Tulsa County.