Former President Suggests Backing of Fringe Theory Regarding Venezuelan Government and Presidential Election
Trump over the weekend appeared to endorse a largely debunked conspiracy theory asserting that the Venezuelan government influences electronic voting software internationally and caused his electoral loss.
Increasing Hostility with Venezuela
While Trump's team have previously stated that his strategy concerning the nation is primarily driven by border concerns and illegal drug operations, his latest comments hint that this antagonism may also be based on an far-fetched theory that was dismissed as untrue by a court in recent years.
"It's crucial to direct our complete attention and resources on ELECTORAL IRREGULARITIES!!"
Previous Legal Actions
A major news network settled nearly $800 million in last year to election software firm to resolve a defamation suit that was partly rooted on similar allegations about Caracas' alleged involvement in the U.S. election.
DOJ Inquiries
The development comes following reports emerged that Trump's Department of Justice has been conducting multiple interviews with conspiracy theorists who continue to promote the notion that Venezuela controls election technology firms and changes election results to favor their preferred candidates.
Principal Individuals
- Retired operative the ex-officer
- Venezuelan expatriate Martin Rodil
- Conservative commentator the media figure
These individuals state they hold documentation of the purported operation and have briefed a taskforce operating out of Florida.
Military Movements
The president's comments coincide with significant military deployments to the area, including the deployment of a navy aircraft carrier to the general area.
Government Measures
More recently, the White House has escalated measures by classifying the nation-associated Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, following prior categorizations by the financial authorities.
Professional Assessment
"Nobody can say for certain what the methodology is within the administration," commented David M Rowe from a university who specializes in defense matters. "If it captures his interest, my interpretation is it becomes part of the process. The president requires to establish grounds in his own mind for conflict."
Rowe added that drug trafficking allegations about Venezuela have not resonated with Trump's base, who have been reluctant to support foreign military action.
Conspiracy Supporters
When questioned about the seeming support of his allegations, Gary Berntsen stated: "Trump understands this is NOT A CONSPIRACY THEORY, he knows the truth, evidence in held by the Justice Department."
Internal Skepticism
Simultaneously, a political dissident who supports strong action against Maduro but is skeptical about the voting allegations stated that proponents of the unsubstantiated claim are seeking to exploit their influence with the administration.