The department described the directive as part of a broader effort involving federal, state and local authorities. It said the work would focus on foreign manipulation of voting systems and other democratic processes while protecting Americans’ fundamental freedoms.
“Free and fair elections are the foundation of our republic,” said chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell. He said defense intelligence personnel and Cyber Command would work with civilian partners to protect voting systems and expose foreign influence efforts.
“U.S. Cyber Command and the National Security Agency are closely partnered to identify and defend against cyber threats to our nation,” said Gen. Joshua M. Rudd, who leads both organizations. Rudd said they regularly counter malicious foreign cyber actors, including those seeking to interfere with U.S. elections.
