AI Tries To Write The News: July 4 in Juneau and Murkowski’s tie-breaking budget vote

Editor’s note: AI Tries To Write The News is a weekly feature where a commercial AI blog tool is asked to write news stories about notable local events of the past week, with excerpts of the results provided. The intent is to familiarize readers with what AI-generated news content looks like, and should not be considered factual or "reporting" in any sense other than as a basis of comparison to the human-written articles.

Stories for the week of June 30

Example 1

"Historic downtown Juneau adorned with flags for the Fourth of July celebrations." (AI-generated photo and caption)

Juneau Independent story from July 4, 2025: Spirits of nation’s founding strong in differing ways for Juneau residents at this year’s July 4 events

In these colorful times the "Spirit of 1776" meant very different things to Juneau residents participating in the 249th celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on Friday.

Ariel Hasse-Zamudio, just before joining more than 130 people involved with a "We The People: Protecting Our Democracy" float in the downtown Juneau parade, said she feels a lot like the people who signed that declaration might have.… …among the spectators at the downtown Juneau parade expressing optimism about the U.S. — and its opportunities past, present and future — was Jessica Paul, who moved from Mexico to Juneau with her family 27 years ago when she was eight years old…

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AI-generated story: July 4 Celebrations in Juneau Reflect Diverse Perspectives on the Nation's 249th Birthday

The Fourth of July is a significant day for many Americans, celebrating the nation's independence and freedom. This year, in Juneau, Alaska, the capital city, the celebrations brought people together and revealed a mix of emotions as the nation turned 249. Events like parades, fireworks, family gatherings, and community activities showcased both joy and introspection, illustrating a rich tapestry of feelings about the country. The Parade of Patriotism

As the sun rose on July 4, Juneau sprang to life with music, laughter, and excitement. The annual Fourth of July parade set the tone for the day, winding through historic streets filled with floats, local organizations, and community groups. Local marching bands filled the air with music, while children riding decorated bicycles added a festive spirit.

Spectators lined the streets, waving flags and cheering for their hometown heroes. Approximately 2,000 residents and visitors came out to watch this year’s parade, with many capturing the moment on their phones. Yet, amid the joy, some residents took a moment to reflect on the complex nature of freedom. For them, the day meant more than just celebration; it was a reminder of the ongoing issues facing our nation… Community Events and Gatherings

After the parade, parks throughout Juneau transformed into lively gathering spots, hosting picnics and barbecues. Families connected over shared meals, weaving a sense of unity. For instance, over 300 people participated in a local potluck at Auke Bay Park, showcasing a variety of dishes from traditional American fare to indigenous Alaskan cuisines.… As night descended, excitement built for the grand fireworks display. Families dotted the waterfront, sitting on blankets with eyes raised skyward, eagerly awaiting the show. With over 10,000 spectators attending, the event became a communal highlight…

Example 2

"A stunning snowy landscape in Alaska representing the natural beauty of the state." (AI-generated photo and caption)

Juneau Independent story from July 1, 2025: Murkowski casts decisive vote on federal budget bill despite admitting it’s ‘not good enough’

U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) is at the center of a firestorm of criticism about the federal budget bill passed Tuesday by the Senate after she cast the decisive 50th vote in favor despite stating afterward "it’s not good enough" and is hoping the U.S. House fixes its faults.

The bill is being assailed by analysts as possibly the biggest transfer of funds from the poor to the rich in U.S. history, via means such as slashing Medicaid and other social safety net programs to partially pay for tax cuts that will primarily benefit the wealthy.…

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AI-generated story: Lisa Murkowski's Support for the 2025 Federal Reconciliation Bill Amid Controversies

In a surprising move, U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) has publicly supported the 2025 federal reconciliation bill. This legislation addresses critical issues such as healthcare, climate change, and economic recovery nationwide. Despite concerns over potential impacts on vital Alaskan sectors, Murkowski's backing shows her commitment to engaging in a broader national conversation around fiscal responsibility and social equity.

The reconciliation bill has stirred significant debate in Washington. Advocates argue it is necessary for tackling pressing issues, while critics question its effectiveness and possible repercussions. As discussions unfold, the stakes for residents of states like Alaska have never been clearer.

The Context of the Reconciliation Bill

Reconciliation bills follow a unique legislative process that allows changes to budgetary measures affecting government spending without risking a filibuster. They only need a simple majority in both the House and Senate. The 2025 federal reconciliation bill is critical, aiming to fulfill campaign promises related to infrastructure investments, social services, and progressive tax reforms.

For Alaska, where the economy significantly relies on oil and gas production, understanding how this legislation might affect local economic stability is crucial. Recent statistics indicate that oil revenues account for about 90% of state funding, making its future a topic of serious concern…