Foreign governments reportedly recruiting Americans to spread propaganda in favor of their interests
WASHINGTON – US intelligence officials revealed on July 29 that foreign governments, including Russia, China, and Iran, are actively recruiting Americans to spread propaganda to influence the 2024 US presidential election.
Recruitment and Propaganda Efforts
The US Office of the Director of National Intelligence reported that some Americans are knowingly aiding these foreign governments, while others have been manipulated into promoting narratives that support foreign interests. The report suggests that these actors aim to shape the US political landscape, influence election outcomes, and exacerbate social and political divisions.
While specific presidential candidates were not named, intelligence officials indicated that Russia is working to bolster Republican nominee Donald Trump’s candidacy, while Iran is reportedly attempting to undermine it.
Russian Influence Campaigns
The report highlighted Russian efforts to build networks of US and Western personalities to promote Russian-friendly narratives. Russia’s goal is not only to influence the presidential race but also to affect congressional elections and undermine public confidence in the electoral process. US intelligence previously found that Russia sought to influence the 2016 and 2020 elections in favor of Trump.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the accusations as “absurd,” rejecting any interference in the election process.
Iran and China’s Involvement
Iran, which was targeted by Trump’s withdrawal from the nuclear deal and severe sanctions, is believed to have an interest in influencing the election, similar to its actions in 2020. However, an Iranian representative denied these claims, accusing the US of spreading disinformation.
Similarly, China’s government refuted allegations of interference, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stating that China “has never and will never interfere” in the US elections. He urged the US to avoid vilifying China as part of its electoral discourse.
Covert Operations and Outsourcing Influence
The report also revealed that Russia has outsourced its influence campaigns to marketing and public relations firms, which help obscure the origin of these efforts. These firms, operating with fewer bureaucratic obstacles, have created platforms that engage Americans and tailor content without revealing Russia’s involvement.
China, in contrast, has worked with a technology company to enhance its covert influence campaigns. While China does not aim to influence the presidential race directly, the report noted that Beijing-affiliated actors may target candidates who threaten China’s interests, as seen in the 2022 midterm elections.
Social Media Manipulation
Both Russia and China continue to use social media to spread divisive narratives and portray democracies as chaotic. These ongoing influence operations are part of broader efforts by foreign actors to destabilize US elections.
