Kehinde Fajobi
A network of Chinese-controlled social media bots is working to influence voters in Alabama, Texas, and Tennessee while attacking U.S. Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, according to new research released by Microsoft on Wednesday.
The bots, part of an influence campaign tied to China’s Ministry of Public Security, targeted several Republican lawmakers who have historically criticised Chinese government policies.
The targets include U.S. Representative Barry Moore of Alabama, Representative Michael McCaul of Texas, Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn, and Rubio.
Microsoft researchers reported that the bot network, known as Taizi Flood, spread antisemitic messages, accused the lawmakers of corruption, and promoted their opponents.
For instance, Moore’s support for Israel was met with antisemitic rhetoric, while Rubio was accused of financial corruption. Blackburn was linked to pharmaceutical money, and McCaul was falsely accused of insider trading.
The report noted that despite the bots’ efforts, engagement with the posts remained low, though specific metrics were not provided.