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Election 2024 Walz
Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks during a campaign event in York, Pa., Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Russia is behind viral disinformation targeting Walz, intelligence official says

A senior U.S. intelligence official says viral online content spreading baseless attacks on Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz was created by Russia

By DAVID KLEPPER
Published - Oct 22, 2024, 08:09 PM ET
Last Updated - Dec 16, 2024, 06:06 PM EST

WASHINGTON (AP) — Groups in Russia created and helped spread viral disinformation targeting Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz, a senior U.S. intelligence official said Tuesday.

The content, which includes baseless accusations about the Minnesota governor's time as a teacher, contains several indications that it was manipulated, said the official with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

Analysts identified clues that linked the content to Russian disinformation operations, said the official, who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity under rules set by the office of the director.

Digital researchers had already linked the video to Russia, but Tuesday’s announcement is the first time federal authorities have confirmed the connection.

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