On October 23, 2024, American intelligence officials stated on Tuesday (October 22) that Russia, China, and Iran intend to sow discord and division among Americans with incendiary and divisive rhetoric before the US election on November 5, and may incite violence after the voter turnout.
According to Reuters on Tuesday, these intelligence officials, when briefing reporters on the security situation of the US elections, mentioned that foreign actors might consider physical threats and violent behavior, and are likely to spread rumors to create uncertainty and disrupt the election process.
An official from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) stated, “Foreign actors, especially those from Russia, Iran, and China, are determined to divide Americans using provocative and divisive rhetoric, undermining Americans’ confidence in the US democratic system.”
The official stated that “foreign forces, particularly from Russia, Iran, and China,” have learned from past US elections and are more prepared to incite unrest when the opportunity arises.
He added that these actors may use tools they have utilized before the election, especially information and the internet, and may also consider implementing physical threats and violence.
However, these officials indicated that there is no evidence of collusion among these three countries in influencing election-related activities. Although they might attempt to disrupt the election process and incite dissatisfaction on election day, the US voting system is secure enough that they cannot change the election results.
The official stated, “Some foreign actors also have the capability to incite protests or take violent actions post-election. Iran and Russia, in particular, are likely willing to consider strategies that promote such violence.”
The Russian and Chinese ambassadors to Washington, as well as the Iranian delegation to the United Nations, did not immediately respond to requests for comments. All three countries have previously denied allegations of interfering in US elections.
ODNI officials said that foreign actors are using social media and other online actions to influence the US presidential and congressional elections, either by defaming or supporting certain candidates.
They mentioned that some social media posts are likely generated by artificial intelligence. For example, an article on social platform X this month, produced by Russians, made unfounded allegations against Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota and Democratic Vice Presidential candidate.
ODNI officials stated that intelligence agencies assessed that Russians created this content, and the review showed “multiple manipulation indicators” consistent with actions by Russians.
The official stated that US intelligence agencies concluded over the weekend that the video was fake and fabricated, aligning with Russia’s ongoing efforts to discredit the Democratic presidential candidates, Kamala Harris and Walz, by fabricating accusations against them.