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In a decisive move to safeguard the 2024 U.S. presidential election, the Biden administration has launched a series of actions aimed at curbing Russian disinformation efforts. Attorney General Merrick Garland, alongside FBI Director Christopher Wray, announced on Wednesday that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is actively addressing covert operations by the Russian government intended to spread propaganda and influence American voters.
For months, the Biden administration has raised alarms about Russian disinformation campaigns targeting the U.S. electoral system. These efforts are designed to sow distrust in democratic processes and manipulate voter sentiment. Garland reiterated the DOJ’s stance against foreign interference, stating, “The Justice Department will not tolerate attempts by an authoritarian regime to exploit our country’s free exchange of ideas in order to covertly further its own propaganda efforts.” Investigations into these foreign operations are ongoing.
The DOJ specifically highlighted a Russian disinformation campaign known as “Doppelganger.” According to recently unsealed court records, the campaign uses government-sponsored actors and digital platforms to disseminate misleading content, aiming to erode international support for Ukraine and promote pro-Russian policies among American voters. As part of their crackdown, the DOJ has seized 32 internet domains allegedly linked to this influence campaign.
Protecting Election Officials Amid Rising Threats
In addition to the external threat of Russian disinformation, the administration is also focused on addressing domestic security concerns, particularly threats against election officials. Garland underscored the rising danger faced by election workers, noting the vital role of the Election Threats Task Force, which has been actively engaged in more than 25 training exercises since March. These exercises involve partnerships with law enforcement and members of the election community to prepare for potential risks.
The task force will be working on the ground with election workers across the country in the lead-up to Election Day. Additionally, the FBI will host federal partners at its command center before and after the election to address any real-time threats or criminal activity. Garland assured election administrators that they are not alone in navigating these challenges, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to protecting the election process from both domestic and foreign actors.
State Department and Treasury Announce Further Measures Against Russian Disinformation
Secretary of State Antony Blinken also outlined a set of actions aimed at countering Russian disinformation efforts. In a statement, Blinken highlighted steps taken by the State Department to limit the influence of Kremlin-backed media outlets that seek to interfere in the U.S. election. One of these measures includes a new visa restriction policy targeting individuals and entities involved in election interference.
Additionally, the State Department has designated RT’s parent company and its subsidiaries as foreign government-controlled entities, significantly restricting their operations in the U.S. As part of its broader countermeasures, the department is offering cash rewards through its “Rewards for Justice” program for information on RaHDit, a Russian hacking group tied to election interference efforts.
In coordination with these efforts, the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control imposed sanctions on 10 individuals and two entities involved in Russian disinformation campaigns. This includes members of the hacktivist group RaHDit and employees of RT. These individuals are believed to play critical roles in Moscow’s broader efforts to influence the outcome of the 2024 U.S. election.
In sum, the Biden administration is implementing a multi-faceted strategy to combat Russian disinformation, combining domestic security initiatives with international sanctions and diplomatic actions. With heightened vigilance on both foreign and domestic fronts, the U.S. government is aiming to ensure a free and fair election in 2024, resilient against external manipulation.
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