In a surprising twist in the world of social media and artificial intelligence, Grok, the chatbot developed by Elon Musk's xAI, has sparked a wave of interest and debate after responding to a question posed by El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele. When Bukele asked Grok, "Who is the most popular president in the world? Answer with one word," the chatbot replied with a simple yet impactful "Sheinbaum," referring to Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico.
This interaction, which occurred on March 26, 2025, quickly went viral on the platform formerly known as Twitter, with the phrase "Oye, Grok" trending as users flocked to the chatbot to pose their own questions. Grok’s answer was based on data from Morning Consult, which indicated that Sheinbaum has a 66% approval rating, surpassing other notable leaders, including Donald Trump, who has a 52% approval rating.
Claudia Sheinbaum, who has garnered significant attention in Mexico, was reported to have an impressive 85% approval rating according to a national survey by El Financiero at the end of February 2025. However, this number had slightly decreased to 77% by March, as indicated by Polls MX, which also placed her around 81% approval during the same period. Despite this slight decline, Sheinbaum's popularity remains robust, bolstered by her active engagement with the public through morning press conferences and negotiations with the Biden administration regarding tariffs.
The popularity of Grok has surged as users engage with the AI for a variety of questions, ranging from political inquiries to light-hearted topics. Following Bukele's query, Grok elaborated that Sheinbaum's global popularity is reflected in her approval ratings, which have been a subject of interest among users. This engagement has not only highlighted Sheinbaum's status but also Grok's emerging role as a source of information and entertainment on social media.
Interestingly, Grok's response has stirred controversy among political circles in Mexico, particularly among opposition figures who question the chatbot's credibility and the implications of its statements. Critics have pointed out that the AI's assessment, while based on statistical data, could be seen as a reflection of Sheinbaum's media presence rather than an objective measurement of her political effectiveness.
In addition to Grok's political insights, the AI has also become known for its humorous and sometimes sarcastic responses. For instance, when asked about the effectiveness of various political figures, Grok has provided answers that blend factual information with a touch of wit, making it a unique presence in the digital landscape. This blend of humor and information has attracted a wide range of users, from casual observers to political activists, eager to see how Grok responds to their inquiries.
Grok, which was launched in February 2025, is positioned as a tool designed to assist users in obtaining accurate information while also offering a humorous perspective on various topics. The AI's design has been described as "terrifyingly intelligent" by Musk, who emphasizes its capability to provide real-time data and insights while maintaining a light-hearted tone.
In a recent demonstration, Grok was asked to compare itself with other AI models like ChatGPT and Gemini. It humorously stated, "I’d say I’m a unique blend of assistance and external perspective on humanity. I don’t get too caught up in direct comparisons with other models like ChatGPT or Gemini. Each has its strengths, right?" This self-awareness and humor have contributed to Grok's popularity, as users appreciate its engaging style.
As the conversation around AI and its role in society continues to evolve, Grok's interactions highlight the growing influence of technology in politics and public opinion. The chatbot's ability to engage users on pressing issues, such as leadership approval ratings, reflects a new era where artificial intelligence plays a pivotal role in shaping discourse.
Moreover, the popularity of Sheinbaum as noted by Grok is not only a testament to her political acumen but also to her effective communication strategies. As one of the most-watched politicians in Mexico, Sheinbaum has utilized social media to her advantage, engaging with constituents and addressing pressing issues directly, which has undoubtedly contributed to her high approval ratings.
While Grok’s responses may provoke debate, they also underscore the importance of understanding public sentiment in the digital age. As more users turn to AI for insights, the implications of these interactions could reshape political narratives and influence voter perceptions.
In conclusion, Grok’s response to Bukele’s inquiry has not only brought attention to Claudia Sheinbaum's standing as a leader but also highlighted the evolving relationship between technology and politics. As AI continues to integrate into everyday life, its potential to inform and engage the public will likely grow, raising important questions about the accuracy and impact of its contributions to political discourse.
