Duval Times

On May 15, 2024, U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Vice Chairman Marco Rubio (R-FL) delivered opening remarks at a hearing focused on foreign threats to the 2024 elections. The senator from Florida expressed his concerns about potential interference in the political process not only in the United States but also in other countries.

"I think in the years to come, we’re going to see more and more nation-states and maybe non-state actors begin to not just come after us and our elections and our political process, but go after those of other countries as well," said Senator Rubio.

In his speech, Rubio highlighted two types of threats: election interference through hacking into voter databases or tampering with early reporting systems; and influence campaigns that manipulate public debates. He pointed out that propaganda has always been a weapon of war, but now it can be spread faster, more convincingly, and on a larger scale.

Rubio emphasized the need for a clear understanding of who is responsible for responding to these threats. Drawing an analogy with hurricane warnings issued by meteorologists at the National Hurricane Center, he questioned who would issue similar warnings in case of an impending threat to the electoral process.

He also touched upon issues related to disinformation campaigns. Using the example of the Hunter Biden laptop incident during which social media companies restricted posts about it due to suspicions of Russian disinformation – suspicions that later proved unfounded – Rubio expressed concern over potential backlash against intelligence agencies perceived as interfering in elections.

"If something were to happen, if tomorrow there was a very convincing video of a candidate...and a video comes out with 72 hours to go before election day of that candidate saying some racist comment or doing something horrifying, but it’s fake, who is in charge of letting people know 'This thing is fake,'" Rubio asked.

In conclusion, Rubio reiterated his belief that foreign interference in elections will continue to increase. "I think in the years to come, we’re going to see more and more nation-states and maybe non-state actors begin to not just come after us and our elections and our political process, but [go after those] of other countries as well," he said. He urged for a coordinated response to these threats.