US State Department Scales Back Election Criticism

The State Department is significantly limiting public commentary on the fairness and legitimacy of foreign elections. A new directive from Secretary of State Marco Rubio instructs diplomatic and consular posts to make only brief statements, focusing on congratulating winners and noting shared interests, while avoiding opinions on electoral integrity or democratic values. This marks a shift from previous U.S. policy, which often involved criticizing flawed elections to pressure governments and support democratic movements. The directive applies to all State Department offices.