US political money funnels to Indian bots to lure voters

Choose editionSingaporeInternationalPosters not based in the US were paid US$1 to US$5 for each thousand views to sway an election in the US. PHOTO: REUTERSPublished Oct 20, 2026, 07:45 AMUpdated Oct 20, 2026, 07:48 AMPolitical money is being used to spread fake-looking voter videos online, with accounts based mostly in India pushing content that seemed local but was paid for.The Michigan Senate primary saw at least 36 videos on X, Facebook, Threads and Instagram, viewed millions of times, and linked to for-hire bot networks.Researchers say this is a growing campaign tactic that blurs real and fake sources, may mislead voters, and could shape future US elections.WASHINGTON – The videos appeared across social media in August before the closely contested Democratic primary for the US Senate in Michigan.They showed people on the street expressing support for one of the candidates, Representative Haley Stevens, and discussing the issues that mattered most to them.See more onGet unlimited access to exclusive stories and incisive insights from the ST newsroomNews titles published by SPH MediaMDDI (P) 046/10/2025. Published by SPH Media Limited, Co. Regn. No.202120748H. Copyright © 2026 SPH Media Limited. All rights reserved.