DOJ alleges Russia funded US media company linked to right-wing social media
The U.S. Department of Justice alleges Tenet Media received nearly $10 million from Russian operatives to influence the 2024 election, promoting pro-Russian narratives and supporting Republican candidates.
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The U.S. Department of Justice has alleged that Tenet Media, a Tennessee-based company linked to right-wing commentators Tim Pool and Benny Johnson, received nearly $10 million in funding from Russian operatives as part of a Kremlin-led influence operation aimed at the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The indictment, unsealed in New York, accuses two employees of RT, the Russian state media outlet, of channeling funds to Tenet Media, referred to as "Company 1" in court documents. The operation reportedly sought to promote pro-Russian narratives and support Republican candidates, particularly Donald Trump. Both Pool and Johnson have publicly stated that they were unaware of any external influence on their content and consider themselves victims of the alleged scheme. The Biden administration has responded to these allegations with a series of actions against Russian influence efforts, including sanctions on ten individuals and the seizure of 32 internet domains. U.S. officials continue to view Russia as a significant foreign influence threat in the upcoming election, following previous accusations against Iran for attempting to hack political campaigns.
- DOJ alleges Tenet Media received Russian funding for influence operations.
- Tim Pool and Benny Johnson are linked to Tenet Media and claim to be victims.
- The Biden administration has imposed sanctions in response to Russian influence efforts.
- The operation aimed to promote pro-Russian narratives and support Republican candidates.
- U.S. officials remain vigilant against foreign influence threats in the 2024 election.
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