Today, Representative Deborah Ross (NC-02) joined Representative Kathy Manning (NC-06) and Representative Wiley Nickel (NC-13) in sending a letter to the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), Avril Haines, requesting a briefing on potential foreign involvement in the rampant spread of disinformation following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. 

In North Carolina, widespread disinformation online has seriously impeded Hurricane Helene disaster relief. Some Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) workers have been forced to pause relief efforts due to threats. After the 2023 Maui wildfires, researchers found that foreign adversaries, including China and Russia, used social media to spread disinformation, hindering recovery efforts. 

“Specifically, we are concerned about potential involvement in propagating or amplifying this disinformation from foreign governments or malign influences, with the intent of undermining public trust in our institutions and hampering emergency response efforts. Given the significant impact that such disinformation can have on public safety, morale, and the overall effectiveness of recovery initiatives, it is critical to address these threats in a timely and transparent manner,” wrote the lawmakers.

They continued, “In light of these concerns, we respectfully request a briefing from your office on any intelligence assessments or findings related to these disinformation campaigns. Understanding the scope of these challenges and any foreign involvement would be invaluable as we work to ensure that accurate information reaches affected communities and that we can counter harmful narratives with effective measures.”

Full text of the letter is available here. 

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