In a recent interview on Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo, former Director of National Intelligence (DNI) John Ratcliffe disclosed China’s covert endeavors to shape U.S. leadership through election interference. The revelation stemmed from a declassified report by the National Intelligence Council, shedding light on the extent of China’s operations during President Joe Biden’s term.
Contrary to previous assessments, Ratcliffe emphasized that China actively sought to influence the 2020 presidential election, aligning its interests with Russia and Iran, all favoring a Biden presidency. The former DNI argued that since Biden assumed office, these nations have grown stronger.
During a Senate Intelligence Committee testimony in May, Ratcliffe referred to the declassified report, stating, “What this report acknowledges is that that’s exactly what happened.” He further detailed earlier claims about specific intelligence indicating China’s plans to interfere in the 2020 election, highlighting deliberate efforts by Chinese analysts to suppress intelligence that might benefit then-President Donald Trump.
This revelation prompted a reluctant acknowledgement from the intelligence community, forcing a reevaluation of its initial assessment. The declassified report outlined China’s motive for intensifying efforts in the 2024 elections, citing the belief that operating with more freedom ahead of the midterms would yield fewer consequences compared to the 2020 presidential election.
Expressing concerns about the implications of China’s meddling, Ratcliffe underscored China’s desire for a Biden presidency, attributing it to Biden’s perceived pro-China stance and anticipated weakness as Commander in Chief. The former DNI pointed to the meeting between Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping in San Francisco, where Jinping reportedly informed Biden about China’s intention to take Taiwan. Ratcliffe suggested that Biden’s response, or lack thereof, reflected a pattern of not confronting China on various issues.
Highlighting the alignment of Biden’s administration with China’s interests, Ratcliffe warned of China’s intensified efforts leading up to the 2024 elections. He anticipated cyber weapon deployment to influence election infrastructure and social media influence campaigns targeting American voters. Ratcliffe stressed the urgency of heightened vigilance to counteract these threats and safeguard the integrity of U.S. elections.
