Let's Set the Record Straight on Russian Hacking

During the final couple of months of the election, and following its conclusion, there has been major debate raging regarding authenticity of information. So, before we dive into hashing out the facts, let's break down the unequivocal.

During a recent Senate briefing, the CIA shared its belief that the Russian government was responsible for hacking the DNC during the 2016 election cycle. Furthermore, the Agency concluded that hacks were carried out to benefit Donald Trump's camp. Trump himself denies the claims as they stand, as do many high-ranking members of the RNC. Every minute this story develops, increased denial is met head-on with fervent finger pointing.

Of course, all of this infighting within the U.S. government is a significant barrier to progress. The search for truth and unbiased presentation of facts are being marred by pride. It is true the election is over, and evidence is not clear as to what the results might have been otherwise. That is all speculation; you cannot measure hypothetical voter psyche. However, these events are unprecedented in the U.S. electoral process. Never has a foreign, political actor stuck its hands into the American democratic process and altered results. Instead of focusing on that reality and thinking forward to 2020, the two-party system is again displaying its shortcomings. This is not an issue of pride or partisanship. It is an opportunity to roll up our sleeves, do some digging, and make our outrage known on the international stage. There is major work to be done navigating the murky waters of diplomacy with Russia, especially in light of this proxy war in Syria. Tough talk and action towards those who act against us, not to those who act alongside us, is the key to moving progress forward. Trump claims he will be a unifier for the country. Now more than ever, we need that ambition to extend to the highest reaches of our government.