Evolving National Interests

The U.S.’s national security interests have evolved this year. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused debate among congressional leaders, local authorities, and federal authorities. Many questions have been asked regarding safely opening businesses, traveling, returning to school, producing an effective COVID-19 vaccine, and limiting physical contacts. The upcoming 2020 election has caused an uproar regarding how the U.S. will safely and responsibly hold an election with integrity. Additionally, protests and riots have caused anger and debate regarding policing and enforcing security at the local, state, and federal levels. These unsettling times have caused businesses to close and workers to be unemployed, which has provoked an economic security debate. Congressional leaders have debated stimulus packages, business loans, and additional unemployment benefits for those without work. These recent U.S. interests have now combined with ongoing international interests, which poses a threat to the U.S.’s security and democracy. 

William R. Evanina, the National Counterintelligence and Security Center director, released a statement concerning Russia, Iran, and China interfering in the upcoming election. The report claims Russia and Iran have been spreading disinformation in the U.S. to lower confidence in the U.S.’s democratic process. China has been using its influence to persuade politicians. For example, Chinese diplomats have made masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE) donations and have demanded support in return. A Wisconsin state senator was asked to pass a resolution applauding China’s assistance in fighting COVID-19. The senator refused and criticized the Chinese Communist Party.  

 

However, Senator Schumer, Speaker Pelosi, Senator Warner, and Representative Schiff criticized Mr. Evanina’s claims and said his generic statements were meaningless. The congressional leaders also called on the F.B.I to brief Congress on disinformation campaigns. There were classified briefings regarding election interreference.

 

Mick Baccio is Pete Buttigeig’s campaign information security official. His main concerns regarding election interference are the large number of absentee ballots and a potentially prolong counting period. This may cause foreign powers to undermine the votes’ confidence as they are being counted. Federal, state, and local officials have lots to think about and not much time to make decisions regarding the 2020 election.