As concerns mount among Americans regarding potential Russian interference in the 2024 presidential election, one political analyst has asserted that any such interference would likely favor Joe Biden over Donald Trump.
According to a report by NBC News in February, former US officials and cybersecurity experts have issued warnings about Russia’s utilization of fake online accounts and bots to undermine President Biden and the Democratic Party. These attacks on Biden are perceived as part of an ongoing effort by Moscow to undermine American military assistance to Ukraine and solidarity with NATO.
In an exclusive statement to Daily Express US, political expert Peggy Grande, who served in the Reagan administration, emphasized that Russian interference in the upcoming election would likely bolster the Biden administration’s prospects. Grande highlighted the historically contentious relationship between Russia and Biden, suggesting that any interference would be in Biden’s favor rather than Trump’s.
While acknowledging Russia’s propensity to meddle in US elections, Grande also drew attention to the influence of China, particularly through platforms like TikTok, especially among younger voters. She contrasted Trump’s tough stance on China with Biden’s comparatively softer approach, suggesting that China may also play a role in disseminating misinformation and disinformation to sway the election in Biden’s favor.
This assertion coincides with Vladimir Putin’s statement in February expressing a preference for Biden to win a second term, citing Biden’s experience and predictability compared to Trump. However, the endorsement raised eyebrows given previous assessments of Russian support for Trump and efforts to influence American elections in his favor.
The White House promptly rejected Putin’s endorsement, with US national security spokesman John Kirby urging Putin to refrain from interfering in American elections. In contrast, Trump welcomed Putin’s statement as a “great compliment” during a campaign rally.
US intelligence agencies have previously concluded Russian interference in the 2016 and 2020 elections, favoring Trump over Democratic opponents. Despite these findings, both Trump and Putin have dismissed allegations of collusion or interference.
While some experts argue that potential Russian interference in the 2024 election could benefit Biden, others, like Bret Schafer of the Alliance for Securing Democracy, suggest that the rewards for Putin supporting Trump would remain significant.
Jake Sullivan, Biden’s national security adviser, has echoed concerns about Russian interference in the upcoming election, underscoring the need for vigilance in safeguarding the democratic process.