The Department of Justice (DOJ) has accused a Tennessee-based media company, Tenet Media, of receiving funds from Russian operatives in an attempt to influence the 2024 US presidential election. Tenet Media, which is associated with prominent right-wing commentators, allegedly acted as a platform for pushing pro-Russian narratives favorable to Republican candidates, including Donald Trump.
According to a recently unsealed indictment, two employees of RT, Russia’s state-run media outlet, funneled nearly $10 million to Tenet Media, referred to as “Company 1” in court documents. Independent sources later confirmed the company’s identity.
The indictment describes how two individuals were recruited to establish the company to add credibility, fully aware that Russian money was behind the project. Prosecutors claim that the operation aimed to spread pro-Russian content, favoring individuals perceived as friendly to Kremlin interests.
Among the influencers listed on Tenet Media’s website are Benny Johnson, Tim Pool, and Dave Rubin. All have issued statements maintaining that they were unaware of the operation and had full editorial control of their content. Combined, these personalities have millions of followers on platforms like YouTube, amplifying their reach.
The DOJ indictment also includes details of negotiations between Tenet Media’s founders and social media stars, revealing lucrative offers to produce content. For example, one influencer was offered $400,000 per month, along with a $100,000 signing bonus.
Lauren Chen and Liam Donovan, both affiliated with Tenet Media, have been named in Tennessee business filings, though they have not been charged. Internal communications from the indictment suggest that both were aware of Russian financial backing.
While Chen and Donovan have remained silent, other influencers implicated in the scheme, such as Johnson, Pool, and Rubin, have publicly distanced themselves, insisting they were deceived and are victims in the alleged plot.
The DOJ’s actions form part of a broader strategy by the Biden administration to counter Russian influence on US elections. This includes sanctions on Russian individuals and the seizure of internet domains used in the operation.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco emphasized that the Kremlin-backed propaganda effort, directed by President Vladimir Putin, was designed to boost candidates favorable to Russia’s agenda, including Trump and other Republicans. These actions are part of a significant ongoing effort to counter foreign interference in the upcoming election.
