WASHINGTON _ Federal authorities said Tuesday they have "not seen new or ongoing compromises of state or local election infrastructure in Florida," contradicting Sen. Bill Nelson, but warned Russian government actors have previously demonstrated an "intent and capability to conduct malicious cyber operations."
The letter to Secretary of State Ken Detzner from the heads of the Department of Homeland Security and FBI adds a new layer to the controversy stirred by Nelson, who nearly two weeks ago said Russian operatives had gotten into some county election systems ahead of the midterms.
"They have already penetrated certain counties in the state and they now have free rein to move about," Nelson said Aug. 8.
Nelson has maintained his position despite fierce opposition from Gov. Rick Scott, who is challenging the three-term Democrat for re-election. On Friday, NBC News reported that, based on unidentified sources familiar with the intelligence, there was basis for Nelson's claim.
But Tuesday's letter from DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and FBI Director Christopher Wray rules out "new or ongoing compromises."
Nelson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Nelson said he and Sen. Marco Rubio were implored by the heads of the Senate Intelligence Committee to write a letter in July to the county election supervisors warning them to be vigilant and avail themselves to federal resources. But Nelson in public comments to the Tampa Bay Times went a step farther, saying there was active meddling.
