GOP-led House report finds email suggesting DHS requested creation of ‘disinformation’ group.
An Email Suggests DHS Created a “Disinformation” Group to Censor Free Speech
An explosive email has surfaced, revealing that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may have played a role in the creation of a secretive “disinformation” group. House Republicans suspect that this group was used by the federal government to quietly censor free speech leading up to the 2020 election. The email, obtained through a subpoena, shows that the Election Integrity Partnership (EIP) was established at the request of DHS/CISA, according to the interim staff report released by the GOP-led House Judiciary Committee and its Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government.
The EIP, led by Stanford University’s Stanford Internet Observatory (SIO), has come under scrutiny from Republicans who believe it served as a channel for federal agencies to submit “misinformation reports” that ultimately led to recommendations for Big Tech companies to censor posts and users on social media platforms. Notably, many prominent Republican officials and conservative figures, including former President Donald Trump and GOP lawmakers, were targeted by these reports for sharing “true information, jokes and satire, and political opinions.”
Chairman Jim Jordan of the Judiciary Committee expressed concern over Stanford University’s cooperation, stating that they only provided information under threat of contempt. He emphasized the importance of uncovering whether the American people were targeted by their own government and so-called “disinformation” experts.
The staff report also reveals emails discussing coordination with CISA to combat “misinformation” or “disinformation.” Additionally, it delves into the origins of the EIP idea, with conflicting claims from interns and SIO Director Alex Stamos.
When contacted for comment, DHS, CISA, and Graham Brookie, the senior director of the Atlantic Council’s Digital Forensic Research Lab, had little to say. However, a spokesperson for the Atlantic Council defended Brookie’s work countering disinformation attacks.
Meanwhile, CISA executive director Brandon Wales denied any involvement in censorship, stating that his agency has never facilitated the suppression of speech. He emphasized that CISA’s focus is on sharing information on election literacy and security, as well as amplifying the voices of election officials to combat disinformation.
This staff interim report follows a recent Senate hearing where Biden administration officials shed light on how agencies approach Big Tech. The hearing was prompted by the Missouri v. Biden case, which alleges collusion between the federal government and social media companies to violate the First Amendment. During the hearing, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas affirmed that his agency does not instruct social media companies to remove content.
How does the creation of a “disinformation” group by the Department of Homeland Security potentially violate First Amendment rights?
Panies to censor content on their platforms. The email, sent by a DHS official to the FBI and other federal agencies, states that the EIP was created to “counteract foreign interference and to ensure the integrity of U.S. elections.”
The revelation of this email has raised serious concerns about the potential violation of First Amendment rights and the manipulation of public discourse by the government. It suggests a coordinated effort by federal agencies to stifle dissenting voices and control the narrative surrounding the election.
House Republicans argue that the creation of this disinformation group was not only an infringement on free speech but also a violation of the Department of Homeland Security’s mandate. They question whether the agency has the authority to engage in such activities and urge further investigation into the matter.
Critics argue that this incident is yet another example of government overreach and the alarming erosion of civil liberties. They point out that the government should not have the power to decide what information is true or false, and that such a responsibility should be left to independent fact-checkers and the public.
Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the lack of transparency surrounding the creation and operation of the EIP. The fact that it was formed at the behest of DHS/CISA, without any public knowledge or debate, raises serious questions about accountability and democratic principles.
The implications of this revelation extend beyond the 2020 election. It raises concerns about the potential future use of such a group to control information and manipulate public opinion on other important issues. It also brings to light the need for robust safeguards to protect free speech and ensure transparency in government activities.
It is imperative that a thorough investigation be conducted into the establishment and activities of the EIP. This investigation should seek to determine whether any constitutional violations occurred and hold those responsible accountable. It should also serve as a wake-up call for the general public and civil society to remain vigilant in the face of potential threats to freedom of speech and democratic processes.
In conclusion, the revelation of an email suggesting the creation of a “disinformation” group by the Department of Homeland Security raises serious concerns. It highlights the need for greater transparency, accountability, and safeguards to protect freedom of speech and democratic processes. The implications of this incident reach far beyond the 2020 election and serve as a reminder of the constant need to defend and uphold the principles of a free society.
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