A man was arrested on gun charges at a security checkpoint near a rally for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in California on Saturday. The Riverside County sheriff’s office reported that the man, identified as 49-year-old Vem Miller of Las Vegas, was found in possession of two guns and a high-capacity magazine. He was stopped by deputies in a black SUV and taken into custody without incident.

Authorities emphasized that the incident did not pose a threat to the safety of Trump or the rally attendees. The rally was held in the Coachella Valley, a location more widely recognized for its annual music and arts festival.

Miller was charged with possession of a loaded firearm and a high-capacity magazine. After being booked, he was released on $5,000 bail on the same day. Further details about the charges have not been disclosed, and Miller has not yet made any public comments regarding the arrest.

This incident comes in the wake of several previous security threats against Trump. In July, the former president narrowly survived an assassination attempt when a bullet grazed his ear during a rally in Pennsylvania. Another man was charged in September for attempting to assassinate Trump after being found with a rifle near Trump’s Palm Beach golf course. He pleaded not guilty.

Despite these incidents, Trump continues to hold rallies across the country as part of his campaign for the 2024 presidential election.

The integrity of U.S. voting systems has been under heightened scrutiny since the 2020 presidential election, with conspiracy theories claiming that machines were manipulated to favor President Joe Biden over former President Donald Trump. Despite these allegations, multiple investigations and reviews in battleground states confirmed the accuracy of the election results, with no evidence of widespread fraud. In a notable legal development, Fox News agreed to a $787 million settlement with Dominion Voting Systems, a leading voting machine manufacturer, to avoid a defamation trial over false claims that Dominion’s machines had rigged the election.

Amid this climate of doubt, election officials across the country have been working diligently to demonstrate the security and accuracy of voting systems in preparation for upcoming elections. Nearly all ballots cast in the 2024 election will have a paper trail, providing a verifiable record in the event of errors or cyberattacks.

What is a Voting Machine?

Voting machines and election technology vary by jurisdiction, but common elements include electronic pollbooks, voter registration systems, and election management systems used to create, track, and issue ballots. Election-night reporting systems then communicate unofficial results. The widespread reliance on technology, while efficient, introduces cybersecurity risks that election officials must carefully manage. For example, many voting systems are kept isolated from the internet, and sensitive data is transferred using secured storage devices like USB sticks. Where internet connections are necessary, private networks are often used to limit exposure to potential threats.

In many parts of the U.S., voters mark paper ballots by hand, which are then scanned and counted electronically. In other cases, voters use computers to make their selections, after which a printed record of their choices is generated for later scanning. This ensures that a paper trail exists for recounts or audits.

Are Voting Machines Connected to the Internet?

In general, voting machines are not connected to the internet, a critical safeguard against cyberattacks. However, in some areas, ballot scanners are permitted to transmit unofficial results via private mobile networks after polling has closed. While this allows for faster reporting on election night, security experts warn that even limited connectivity poses unnecessary risks. Despite this, officials emphasize that paper ballots provide a crucial backup for verifying election results.

Are Voting Machines Secure?

Since Russia’s attempt to scan state voter registration systems for vulnerabilities in 2016, U.S. election security has been significantly bolstered. The designation of election systems as critical infrastructure has allowed the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to offer free cybersecurity assessments and vulnerability testing to election offices nationwide. Jen Easterly, CISA’s director, has assured the public that “election infrastructure has never been more secure” thanks to ongoing efforts by election officials.

However, cybersecurity experts continue to push for additional precautions, particularly in states like Georgia, where some voting machines electronically mark ballots for voters. There are ongoing legal battles aimed at replacing these machines with hand-marked paper ballots, which are considered more secure by some election security advocates. Concerns have also grown over security breaches that occurred in the aftermath of the 2020 election, where Trump allies gained unauthorized access to voting systems in Georgia and elsewhere. Experts warn that these breaches and the public release of sensitive election software have created serious security vulnerabilities, prompting calls for a federal investigation.

Ensuring Accuracy

Election officials employ a range of safeguards to ensure that voting systems function accurately and securely. Physical security measures, such as restricted access to machines and tamper-evident seals, are standard practices. Equipment is rigorously tested before elections, with test ballots run through machines to verify that they count votes correctly. After the election, officials conduct postelection audits and reviews to catch any errors or irregularities.

Approximately 98% of ballots cast in the 2024 election will include a paper record, according to a report from the Brennan Center for Justice. This paper trail is crucial for ensuring that, even in the event of an error or cyberattack, officials can confirm the correct result. Election experts emphasize that these systems, combined with a growing culture of transparency in election management, are designed to protect the integrity of U.S. elections.

In an environment where distrust in voting systems has been stoked by misinformation, election officials are doubling down on security and transparency. They aim to reassure the public that voting systems are secure, accurate, and more resilient than ever before.

Mozambique’s electoral authorities have extended voting in some regions and for overseas citizens in Germany due to logistical challenges. While most of the country completed voting on Wednesday, delays in delivering voting materials caused disruptions in certain areas, particularly in Zambezia province, as well as for Mozambican voters in Germany.

According to Paulo Cuinica, spokesperson for the National Electoral Commission, voting materials did not reach 23 polling stations in Zambezia on time. These included 4 stations in Maganja da Costa and 19 in Gilé district. In response, authorities extended voting in these areas, allowing citizens to cast their ballots until Saturday from 7 am to 6 pm.

Complications were not limited to Mozambique’s borders. A similar issue occurred in Germany, where 670 Mozambicans were unable to vote as materials shipped in late September were held up in Cologne and did not arrive in Berlin until Thursday, the day after the election. Voting in Germany was extended from 9 am to 9 pm on Saturday to accommodate these voters.

Observers Flag Concerns

As the election process continues, international observers have provided preliminary assessments, praising the peaceful nature of the voting process but also raising concerns about delays and procedural issues.

Laura Valerin, chief observer of the European Union’s election mission, noted that EU observers monitored about 800 polling stations. While she acknowledged the peaceful campaign and orderly voting, Valerin expressed concerns about the efficiency of the counting phase, describing it as “very long and slow.” Additionally, she highlighted doubts among polling staff about how certain procedures should be conducted, signaling a lack of clarity that could affect the overall process.

Valerin also pointed to broader skepticism about the independence of Mozambique’s electoral bodies, a sentiment shared by various political parties, media outlets, and civil society organizations in the lead-up to the election.

Succès Masra, head of the observer mission for the U.S.-based International Republican Institute, also commented on the election’s procedural shortcomings. His organization, which deployed teams across Mozambique from 20 countries, including 12 in sub-Saharan Africa, reported issues such as delayed accreditation for observers and party agents, late changes to electoral laws, and concerns about the misuse of state resources during the campaign. Masra emphasized that while Mozambican citizens were committed to exercising their democratic rights, these issues posed challenges to public confidence in the process.

Awaiting Results

Mozambique’s seventh general election since the adoption of multiparty democracy 30 years ago now awaits its official results. The first outcomes from the National Electoral Council are expected as early as Saturday, though any potential delays due to extended voting may affect the timeline. Both domestic and international observers are hopeful that Mozambique can address its electoral challenges and strengthen the integrity of its democratic institutions going forward.

In a small gathering room in St. Cloud, the voices of Minnesota’s Somali leaders carried a deep sense of urgency. More than 35 religious leaders and scholars had come together to officially endorse the Harris-Walz ticket, expressing their profound fears about what a second Donald Trump presidency could mean for the Muslim community in America. Their message was clear: the stakes are higher than ever for Somali-Americans, whose civil rights and very sense of security are on the line.

The endorsement was not merely a political gesture—it was a rallying cry for a community that had already endured the brunt of Trump’s policies. Under his administration, the controversial Muslim travel ban disproportionately affected Somali nationals, separating families and casting a shadow of fear over an already vulnerable immigrant population. Many in Minnesota’s Somali community, the largest in the United States, fear that a Trump return to office could reignite this marginalization and deepen the Islamophobia that has been steadily rising in the country.

“We cannot sit idly by while Trump threatens our communities both here and abroad,” declared Imam Mohamed Mukhtar, his voice carrying the weight of the coalition’s collective concern. “His policies—from the travel ban to Project 2025—are designed to divide and spread hatred.” The mention of Project 2025, a policy initiative that some fear could strip protections from minority communities, sent a ripple of unease through the room.

For many in Minnesota’s Somali-American community, the memories of Trump’s first term are still raw. The travel ban was more than just a political decision; it was a moment that redefined the relationship between the U.S. government and Muslim immigrants. Families were torn apart, travel became a nightmare, and the message was unmistakable—Muslims, particularly from countries like Somalia, were unwelcome. Now, with the 2024 election looming, the fear is that these policies could return, more entrenched and more damaging than before.

Yet, the endorsement of the Harris-Walz ticket does not come without its complexities. The Somali leaders voiced their disapproval of certain U.S. foreign policies, particularly regarding the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. They called for an immediate ceasefire and urged the international community to recognize Palestinian self-determination. These are deeply personal issues for many Somali-Americans, who feel a connection to the broader struggles of Muslims around the world.

Still, when faced with the immediate threat to their rights and safety within the U.S., the leaders have made it clear that Trump’s domestic policies pose a far greater danger. Their message was pragmatic: while they disagree with some of the Democratic Party’s foreign policies, the need to protect Muslim Americans from further harm at home must come first.

“We need to focus on the issues that are impacting us here, now,” one leader said, echoing the sentiments of many. “Our community cannot afford another four years of policies that target us simply for being who we are.”

The endorsement reflects not only the fear of what Trump’s return could mean but also the political awakening of Minnesota’s Somali-American community. Once a marginalized group with limited political clout, they have become a key voting bloc in the state, especially in local elections. The rise of figures like Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and State Representative Hodan Hassan has galvanized Somali voters, who now see their participation in U.S. politics as essential to safeguarding their rights.

Earlier this year, the visit of Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre to Minnesota underscored the state’s growing importance to the Somali diaspora. During his visit, Barre met with Governor Tim Walz to discuss deepening trade relations, exploring clean energy investments, and enhancing cooperation between Minnesota and Somalia. It was a moment that highlighted the community’s global connections and the potential for stronger ties between the state and the Horn of Africa.

But as the Somali leaders in Minnesota make their voices heard, their focus remains on the present dangers posed by rising Islamophobia and xenophobia in the U.S. Their endorsement of Harris-Walz is not just about policy—it’s about survival. They see this election as a turning point for their community and for Muslim Americans at large.

The coming months will reveal whether Minnesota’s Somali voters can tip the scales in this crucial election. But for now, their message is clear: unity against Trump’s policies is the only way to protect their future in a country that still feels precarious for so many.

The latest warning from U.S. officials, highlighting the activities of Iranian hackers linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), underscores the growing cyber threat landscape as the U.S. moves closer to its November elections. The FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have sounded the alarm, urging political campaigns, as well as individuals connected to U.S. politics, to enhance their cybersecurity defenses. This coordinated effort follows increasing evidence that Iranian hackers are targeting political entities, hoping to undermine the integrity and confidence in the electoral process.

This isn’t the first time Iranian operatives have been accused of meddling in U.S. elections. The latest bulletin from the FBI and CISA points to a continuation of efforts to compromise personal and professional email accounts, often through sophisticated phishing attacks. The hackers, according to U.S. officials, impersonate trusted contacts to steal login credentials and passwords. These methods are part of a broader strategy, used in the past, to conduct hack-and-leak operations aimed at discrediting political campaigns.

Late last month, the U.S. Department of Justice formally charged three Iranian nationals—Masoud Jalili, Seyyed Ali Aghamiri, and Yaser Balaghi—for their roles in previous cyber campaigns that targeted high-ranking U.S. officials, including former CIA officers. These efforts, according to U.S. prosecutors, are seen as part of a broader attempt by Tehran to disrupt American democratic processes and weaken political stability.

What’s particularly troubling about these warnings is the potential for long-term damage to public confidence. While direct electoral manipulation, such as altering vote counts, has not been reported, the aim of such cyberattacks seems to be more about sowing distrust and amplifying societal divisions. The use of AI-generated fake news, social media disinformation, and other cyber tools to manipulate public sentiment is part of this tactic. The goal: to stoke internal political discord and erode trust in democratic institutions.

Previous U.S. intelligence reports have suggested that Iran’s interference efforts are aligned with a desire to harm Donald Trump’s re-election chances, while indirectly boosting other candidates. While Iran denies these claims, U.S. officials, including Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, have provided detailed assessments indicating that Tehran has also tried to infiltrate protest movements, most notably those opposing Israeli actions in Gaza.

Jen Easterly, the CISA Director, emphasized that the IRGC’s cyber capabilities continue to pose a serious and escalating risk. U.S. adversaries, including Iran, Russia, and China, have reportedly ramped up cyber activities targeting not only political campaigns but also the broader political ecosystem. This includes journalists, academics, former officials, and activists—individuals whose influence or credibility could be leveraged to affect election outcomes.

As the November 5 election nears, the stakes grow higher. Political campaigns, especially those at the national level, have become prime targets for cyberattacks. The FBI and CISA have responded by tripling the number of security briefings for political campaigns, a move aimed at mitigating the risks of foreign interference. Yet, the resilience of U.S. democracy may ultimately hinge on how well these threats are countered—not just technologically but also in terms of public perception.

For Iran, meddling in U.S. elections appears to be part of a broader geopolitical strategy. As tensions between Washington and Tehran persist, especially over issues like Iran’s nuclear program and its regional influence, cyber warfare has become a powerful tool. The fact that Iranian hackers are now being openly tied to efforts to influence U.S. elections reflects a new, digital front in the ongoing geopolitical struggle.

Whether the latest round of cyberattacks will have any substantial impact remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that foreign cyber interference is now an integral part of the modern electoral landscape, raising urgent questions about how governments, political organizations, and voters can safeguard democracy in the digital age. The challenge for U.S. authorities, then, is not only in defending against these incursions but also in maintaining public trust—no easy task in an environment rife with disinformation and political polarization.

The U.S. response to these threats—whether through enhanced cybersecurity measures, political resilience, or legal actions against foreign actors—will be critical in the months ahead. The integrity of the electoral process and the ability of democratic institutions to withstand foreign interference remain at the heart of these efforts. As Iranian hackers continue to prowl, the call for vigilance has never been louder.

As Somaliland prepares for its upcoming election, the political landscape is being shaped in unexpected ways. The once-traditional campaign strategies involving door-to-door outreach, rallies, and state-run media have taken a back seat. In their place? A flood of TikTok influencers, content creators, and mid-tier social media stars, who are quickly becoming the primary sources of political information for a significant chunk of the electorate. But what might seem like a digital revolution of democratic engagement carries a dark side—one that raises serious concerns about the integrity of Somaliland’s elections and the potential manipulation of public opinion.

The shift is clear in the numbers. According to the latest research from Waryatv’s Research Team, an analysis of 7,946 unique TikTok accounts between August and September 2024 found that mid-tier influencers or creators dominate the platform, accounting for 46% of the accounts followed by Somaliland adults. Smaller accounts—often friends, family, or hyper-local content creators—are followed by 38% of users. Notably, only a minuscule 0.4% of users follow actual journalists or media outlets, with politicians trailing behind at less than 1%. This reveals a startling disconnect between the electorate and traditional, verified news sources. More significantly, it exposes the country to a flood of misinformation and manipulation that could dangerously distort the democratic process.

Somaliland now finds itself in the grips of an unsettling trend. Political parties, most notably the opposition Waddani Party, have pivoted to social media platforms like TikTok as a primary vehicle for disseminating campaign messages. While the ruling party Kulmiye continues to rely on traditional journalism and state media such as Radio Hargeisa and Somaliland TV (SLTV), it’s clear that they are playing catch-up in the TikTok-driven world of political influence. This transition to digital campaigning may seem modern and even progressive, but the risks are profound.

For one, the personalized nature of TikTok’s algorithm makes it a breeding ground for misinformation. Unlike platforms like Facebook or Twitter, where users have more direct control over their news consumption, TikTok’s algorithm serves users a constant stream of content that aligns with their interests and viewing habits. What this means in the context of an election is that a user who enjoys a certain type of content—whether entertainment, gossip, or conspiracy theories—may be exposed to political content that shares the same unverified, sensationalized tone. In this case, the facts are drowned out by the noise, and misinformation campaigns can spread like wildfire.

There is a growing concern that these TikTok influencers, who are now shaping political narratives for nearly half of Somaliland’s online users, do not adhere to any journalistic ethics. They aren’t bound by the responsibility to fact-check or present balanced viewpoints. Their content is often mixed with election campaign songs, gossip, or sensationalized promotional material, making it difficult for users to discern where entertainment ends and political reality begins. This merging of content is not merely a quirk of the platform but a deliberate strategy employed by parties like Waddani to blur the lines between news and entertainment, hoping to capture the attention of Somaliland’s youth—the very group that constitutes a significant part of the electorate.

And the numbers don’t lie. An astonishing 52% of TikTok users in Somaliland regularly get their news from the platform, up from 22% in 2020. This rise in TikTok as a news source coincides with a troubling decline in trust in legacy media. While journalists and traditional news organizations are followed by less than 1% of users on the platform, creators—who often lack any formal training or expertise—are now viewed as legitimate purveyors of political information. This trend is particularly prevalent among the youth, with 40% of Somalilander users aged 18-24 discovering political news on TikTok.

The implications are staggering. Without any rule of law regulating social media platforms like TikTok in Somaliland, the country is ripe for election manipulation. Misinformation campaigns can be launched without repercussions, and the lack of oversight means that foreign actors or political operatives can exploit these platforms to sway public opinion. The absence of accountability for the content posted on TikTok raises serious red flags about the fairness and transparency of the upcoming election.

The potential for TikTok to be weaponized during Somaliland’s election is very real, and if left unchecked, it could undermine the democratic process in profound ways. While social media has been celebrated for democratizing information, in places like Somaliland, where regulation is virtually nonexistent, it poses an unprecedented threat.

As the election heats up, the role of TikTok in shaping the political conversation will only grow. But the question remains: will this influence be a force for democratic engagement, or will it serve as a tool for manipulation and control?

As Somaliland faces its 2024 elections, the unchecked power of TikTok could distort the political landscape and erode trust in the democratic process. With no regulatory framework in place to monitor social media content, the country risks falling victim to a flood of misinformation, manipulation, and influence from unregulated content creators.

The rise of TikTok in Somaliland politics is both a symptom of changing media consumption and a warning sign of potential democratic backsliding.

As the United States approaches its next major election in November 2024, the political landscape is charged with anticipation. The upcoming elections, which will determine the next president, members of Congress, and several state and local officials, are set against a backdrop of intense political polarization, economic challenges, and social upheavals. This analysis will explore key factors shaping the election, major candidates, voter issues, and the potential outcomes.

The 2024 U.S. presidential election is poised to be one of the most watched events globally. On the Republican side, former President Donald Trump is running for office again, having secured a substantial base within the GOP. Despite facing multiple legal challenges, including indictments and civil suits, Trump continues to lead in most Republican primary polls. His “America First” agenda resonates with a large segment of the party, emphasizing nationalism, strict immigration policies, and deregulation.

On the Democratic side, President Joe Biden has confirmed his intention to run for a second term, despite concerns over his age (he would be 82 at the start of a second term). Biden’s platform focuses on economic recovery, climate change, healthcare, and rebuilding international alliances. His administration’s accomplishments, such as the Inflation Reduction Act and the infrastructure bill, will likely be central to his campaign, though criticism over inflation and immigration may challenge his appeal.

In addition to Trump and Biden, a few other notable candidates have emerged. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. briefly drew attention with his campaign as a Democrat before switching to run as an independent, presenting a potential challenge to both parties by attracting voters dissatisfied with the mainstream options. Moreover, progressive Democrats may look toward figures like California Governor Gavin Newsom, should Biden face any last-minute health or political obstacles.

Several issues are likely to dominate the discourse leading up to the 2024 elections. Understanding these issues is crucial for analyzing the political environment:

Voters are likely to focus heavily on the economy, particularly inflation, wage stagnation, and the broader cost of living crisis. The U.S. experienced historic inflation levels during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and while inflation has cooled in recent months, many Americans still feel the squeeze of rising prices, especially in housing, healthcare, and energy. The candidates’ positions on economic relief, tax policy, and job creation will be pivotal to their success.

Cultural and social issues, such as abortion rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and gun control, remain deeply divisive. The Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade ignited a wave of activism on both sides of the abortion debate, and many states have since passed restrictive or protective laws regarding abortion access. Both parties will likely mobilize their bases around these issues, with Democrats emphasizing personal freedoms and reproductive rights, while Republicans highlight their traditional, conservative values.

Climate change is another significant issue, particularly among younger voters. President Biden’s efforts to transition the U.S. toward renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions are likely to be central to his campaign. However, Republicans have criticized Biden’s climate policies, arguing that they hurt U.S. energy independence and impose unnecessary regulations on businesses. The ongoing debate between environmental sustainability and economic growth will be a critical battleground.

Immigration continues to be a contentious issue, especially along the southern border. Republicans are likely to campaign on tougher immigration enforcement and border security, criticizing the Biden administration’s handling of the situation. Democrats, meanwhile, are advocating for comprehensive immigration reform, focusing on a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and addressing root causes of migration in Latin America.

As in previous elections, the outcome of the 2024 presidential race will likely hinge on key battleground states such as Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona, and Georgia. These swing states have fluctuated between Democratic and Republican control in recent election cycles and are expected to be intensely competitive once again. Suburban voters, in particular, will be a crucial demographic, as their preferences often tip the balance in these closely contested states.

Voter turnout will be another determining factor in 2024. Both parties are expected to engage in extensive get-out-the-vote campaigns, particularly targeting minority groups, young voters, and women, who could play a decisive role in the election outcome. However, increasing political polarization may also lead to lower voter engagement among moderate voters or those disillusioned by the extreme rhetoric on both sides.

In addition to the presidency, all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 33 Senate seats will be up for grabs in 2024. Republicans are aiming to maintain control of the House, while Democrats hope to retain their narrow Senate majority. The balance of power in Congress will significantly impact the next president’s ability to enact their legislative agenda.

The 2024 U.S. elections represent a critical juncture in American politics, with significant implications for the country’s future direction on both domestic and international issues. With a polarized electorate, key battleground states, and a complex array of voter concerns, the election will likely be fiercely contested. As the campaigns intensify, the candidates’ ability to address pressing issues such as the economy, social justice, climate change, and immigration will shape not only their political fortunes but also the nation’s trajectory for years to come.

With less than a month before U.S. voters head to the polls, intelligence officials are sounding alarms about an intensifying wave of disinformation efforts from adversarial nations. According to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, countries like Russia, Iran, and China are increasing their efforts to influence the upcoming presidential election and undermine public confidence in the process.

A senior intelligence official, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized that foreign actors are accelerating these campaigns as Election Day nears, recognizing the vulnerability of early voters and the potential to exacerbate post-election uncertainty.

“They understand the stakes,” the official said, adding that disinformation could continue to spread even after polls close, particularly to challenge the validity of election results.

While Moscow remains focused on boosting former President Donald Trump’s chances, Iran has reportedly been working against the Republican nominee by aiding operations harmful to his campaign. China, though less involved in the presidential race, has concentrated its influence on state and local elections, targeting candidates perceived as threats to its geopolitical interests, notably those with strong pro-Taiwan stances.

Despite Beijing’s denials, U.S. officials are also seeing signs of Cuban involvement, as well as renewed Russian efforts targeting congressional races, particularly to undermine U.S. support for Ukraine.

These warnings align with growing concerns among lawmakers and cybersecurity experts, who have repeatedly cautioned that foreign meddling in U.S. elections has become more sophisticated. Microsoft President Brad Smith has noted a sharp rise in malign cyber efforts, particularly by Russia and Iran.

Moreover, foreign actors are increasingly disguising their hand by using American intermediaries to spread their messages, a tactic that makes their efforts harder to detect.

As voters prepare to cast their ballots, experts worry the 48 hours following Election Day may be especially vulnerable to disinformation, with foreign adversaries poised to exploit even the slightest delay or dispute over results.