Russian Spy Scandal Roils The GOP

Narativ with Zev Shalev (Audio)

In my latest podcast episode, I had former Congressman Denver Riggleman on to discuss the ongoing threats of Russian interference in the 2024 presidential election. Some key takeaways:

• Alexander Smirnov, a Russian intelligence asset, was the main source behind false allegations about Hunter Biden taking bribes. This shows how Russian disinformation can infiltrate partisan investigations.
• An FBI whistleblower has claimed confidential informants were used to spread disinformation about the Bidens to the Trump administration. This illustrates problems with the FBI's handling of foreign interference cases.
• Speaker Mike Johnson has disturbing connections to Putin's inner circle. His refusal to provide military aid to Ukraine raises questions about whether he is acting in America's interests.
• The Hunter Biden laptop story shows patterns of Russian interference across the 2016, 2020, and now 2024 elections that Republicans like Jim Jordan fail to acknowledge.
• Polling shows Trump retains an extremely loyal base that is unlikely to fracture before 2024. Issues like abortion rights could potentially swing some Republican women to Biden.
• A Trump re-election in 2024 raises concerns about retaliation, political violence, chaos, and damage to democracy. October surprises internationally could also impact the outcome.

I discuss all of these issues and more with Denver Riggleman, who brings expertise from serving on the January 6th Committee. With Russian threats increasing as we approach 2024, it's an important episode to understand the forces that still endanger American democracy. Please have a listen!

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