China targets Republican candidates in brazen attempt to sway 2024 US elections, Microsoft report reveals.
Yes, China is trying to meddle in our elections – and Republicans are onto them.
At a Glance
- Microsoft report exposes China’s interference in 2024 US elections, targeting Republican candidates
- Chinese influence operations focus on GOP members advocating anti-Chinese policies
- Taizi Flood, linked to China’s Ministry of Public Security, identified as the group behind the targeting
- Microsoft warns of rapid spread of manipulated content, especially around Election Day
- Russia and Iran also engaged in efforts to undermine US democratic processes
China’s Alarming Interference in US Elections
A shocking report from Microsoft has unveiled China’s ongoing interference in the 2024 US elections, with a specific focus on targeting Republican candidates. This revelation comes as a stark reminder of the persistent threats to our democratic processes from foreign actors. The report, released by Microsoft’s Threat Analysis Center (MTAC), exposes sustained influence efforts by China, alongside Russia and Iran, aimed at undermining the integrity of American elections.
The Chinese influence operations have zeroed in on Republican candidates and members of Congress who advocate for policies that oppose Chinese interests. This targeted approach reveals Beijing’s strategic efforts to shape the political landscape in its favor, raising serious concerns about the protection of our electoral system.
Republican Candidates in the Crosshairs
According to the report, China is actively working to damage the 2024 campaigns of several prominent Republican figures, including Rep. Barry Moore, Michael McCaul, Sen. Marsha Blackburn, and Sen. Marco Rubio. These candidates have been singled out for their strong stance against Chinese policies and their vocal criticism of the Chinese Communist Party.
“Chinese influence operations have focused on down-ballot Republican candidates and members of Congress that advocate for anti-Chinese policies,” Microsoft said.
The group responsible for these targeted attacks, known as Taizi Flood, has been linked to China’s Ministry of Public Security. Their tactics include spreading antisemitic messages, making corruption accusations, and promoting opposition candidates. This coordinated effort demonstrates the sophisticated nature of China’s interference campaign and the lengths to which they are willing to go to influence American politics.
China's new focus in U.S. elections interference is not Harris-Trump presidential race https://t.co/RFmf0pAPGd
— CNBC (@CNBC) October 15, 2024
Thankfully, Republicans are onto it – and if Trump is elected in November, he’ll be on the case, too.