According to a United States intelligence official, Chinese operatives are actively involved in shaping at least 10 US congressional, state, or local election races through covert social media campaigns and other activities. The focus of these influence operations is on political candidates perceived by Beijing to threaten its core interests, particularly in relation to Taiwan.
The official from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence highlighted that Chinese operatives have been engaging in activities aimed at denigrating specific candidates using a variety of social media and online influence tactics.
Unlike Russia and Iran, China has not directed its efforts towards influencing the ongoing presidential contest between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. US intelligence officials have indicated that Russia is once again attempting to boost Trump's candidacy, while Iran is leaning towards supporting Harris.
The latest US intelligence assessment also reveals that China is not the only foreign entity focusing on down-ballot races. Russia has been utilizing a diverse set of influence actors to target congressional candidates, with a specific emphasis on undermining US aid to Ukraine.
Moreover, the official mentioned that Cuba has likely considered engaging in influence operations targeting certain candidates, indicating a broader international interest in shaping US election outcomes.
