Foreign Influence Operations Adapt to U.S. Election Shifts

U.S. intelligence officials warn that foreign actors are adjusting their influence operations in response to developments in the presidential race, notably Joe Biden ending his reelection bid. These actors are now focusing on Vice President Kamala Harris and utilizing marketing firms and technology to shape public opinion, aiming to undermine democratic processes.

Foreign actors targeting November's U.S. election are expected to adapt to recent developments, particularly Joe Biden dropping his reelection bid, according to a U.S. intelligence official. The official emphasized that these actors are focusing on 'events that occurred this month regarding the presidential race,' without directly mentioning President Biden's decision to withdraw.

The U.S. intelligence community anticipates that foreign influence operations will now shift their focus to Vice President Kamala Harris, who Biden endorsed as the Democratic candidate. 'We expect these actors to adjust to these events and incorporate them into their influence narratives, seeking to undermine democratic institutions,' the official stated, without naming the foreign actors involved.

Biden, 81, ended his reelection campaign on July 21 amid increasing pressure from fellow Democrats and positioned Harris as the party's nominee to face Republican Donald Trump. Briefing reporters, an official from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence noted that foreign actors had already used the July 13 attempted assassination of Trump 'as part of their narratives.'

(With inputs from agencies.)