419: David Shimer | 100 Years of Covert Election Interference

Policy Responses

David Shimer discusses the strategic policy responses necessary to counter election interference. He emphasizes the importance of strengthening democratic institutions both domestically and internationally. Shimer suggests that exposing vulnerabilities, such as Vladimir Putin's wealth and corruption, could serve as a deterrent against further interference.

If you keep pushing, keep interfering, you'll pay an even steeper price.

--- David Shimer

By investing in education and local media, democracies can unite their electorates and secure their infrastructures. Shimer believes that working with social media companies and other democracies is crucial to detect and deter interference 1 2.

   

Covert Interference

Shimer highlights the historical context of covert election interference, contrasting American and Russian approaches. He notes that while the U.S. has moved away from such practices post-Cold War, Russia has intensified its efforts. Shimer argues for a complete ban on covert electoral interference by the U.S., aligning with democratic values and interests.

We should move away from now completely.

--- David Shimer

He differentiates between democracy promotion and covert interference, stressing that the former involves supporting legitimate elections without manipulation 3.