A New Level of Political Warfare: How and Why the Russian Government Hijacked the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election
Abstract
Just a year after the 2016 presidential election and on the eve of the midterm elections of 2018, fear and a sense of uncertainty about the integrity of the U.S. democratic process and its institutions is in the minds of many Americans. Increasing evidence points to the Russian government as the clear culprit for undermining the U.S. democratic and electoral processes, sparking social divisiveness, and exploiting what some Russians see as fundamental weaknesses in democracy and its institutions. Moscow's intent goes well beyond the election to create long-term damaging effects on the basic principles of democracy, a system that Russia sees as a threat to its political stability, social order, and foreign policy agenda. This paper will attempt to reveal that it was never solely about influencing an individual candidate or party; instead, Russia's plan was to weaken the foundations of the U.S. political system by sowing discord, confusion, and political unrest among the American people.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 03, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1177215
Entities
People
- Jorge I. Velez
Organizations
- Marine Corps University