An intelligence official stated that US adversaries targeting the November elections through influence operations would adapt to changes in the presidential election.
The source also said that unidentified foreign actors were particularly focused on “events that occurred this month regarding the presidential race,” without directly referring to President Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race.
We expect these actors to adjust to these events and incorporate them into their influence narratives, seeking to undermine democratic institutions.
US intelligence agencies also expect foreign actors to refocus their influence operations on Vice President Kamala Harris endorsed by Biden as the new Democratic nominee. In addition, an official from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence cited reports from non-governmental groups that foreign actors had already used the 13 July assassination attempt on Trump “as part of their narratives.”
US foes targeting the country’s elections are also outsourcing influence operations to marketing and communications firms. Officials say there are also many such firms in Latin America and the Middle East that can be used to disguise responsibility.
Meanwhile, Chinese government agencies are allegedly using a Chinese technology company to boost covert influence operations in the United States, the official reveals. While the Chinese government probably does not plan to influence the outcome of the US election, it was using social media to spread dissension among Americans, the source added.
