Right-Wing Social Media Stars Unwittingly Amplified Russian Propaganda, Says DOJ

Some of the most popular right-wing social media personalities were unknowingly involved in a Russian operation to influence the 2024 U.S. election, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ revealed that nearly $10 million had been funneled from Russian state media producers to a Tennessee-based media company known as Tenet Media, which features several high-profile conservative commentators.

These influencers, including figures like Tim Pool, Benny Johnson, Lauren Southern, Tayler Hansen, Matt Christiansen, and Dave Rubin, boast millions of followers on platforms like YouTube. Although none were accused of wrongdoing, they were unwittingly paid by Russian sources to promote content that aligned with the Kremlin’s goals. The DOJ indictment noted that the content pushed by these influencers included criticism of U.S. support for Ukraine, among other divisive topics.

One particularly alarming instance involved Russian state media requesting that Tenet’s founders direct an influencer to blame Ukraine for a terrorist attack in Moscow. These revelations showcase the vulnerabilities of the new media landscape, where creators can be influenced without knowing the source of their funding. Some of the influencers have since acknowledged their involvement and are cooperating with authorities as potential victims of the scheme.