Trump Drops 'Proof' China Stole 2020 Election, Claims 220 Million US Voter Files Hacked
Former President Donald Trump has revived his baseless claims of a stolen 2020 election, this time accusing China of stealing 220 million US voter records and calling the American voting system worse than "any third world country." In a televised primetime address on Friday, Trump released what he called declassified intelligence documents, alleging without evidence that Beijing interfered to help Joe Biden win [197964][198077].
Speaking before a small audience of Cabinet members and officials, Trump said China illegally obtained 220 million US voter files and attempted to create fake ballots for Biden [198020][198077]. He cited CIA reports he claimed prove China wanted him to lose because of his tariffs and military buildup [198077]. Trump also alleged that "deep state" officials hid evidence of the interference, though he offered no specific proof for any of his claims [198077][198050].
The former president used the speech to push Congress to pass his "Save America Act," which would require photo ID to vote, proof of citizenship, and severely limit mail-in voting. "The only reason you wouldn't do this is because you want to cheat," he said [198077].
China quickly dismissed the accusations as "complete falsehoods." Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said Beijing "has no interest in and has never interfered in US elections," calling Trump's claims "pure fabrication" and "a malicious smear campaign" [198077].
Election officials and experts have warned that such rhetoric—without evidence—could erode public confidence and increase tensions ahead of the November midterm elections, which will determine control of Congress [198050]. US intelligence agencies have previously concluded that Beijing did not alter the outcome of the 2020 vote [197964].