X Feature Exposes Foreign-Run Accounts Influencing U.S. Politics
A new transparency tool on X is revealing that several political accounts posing as American users are actually operated overseas. The feature, called “About This Account,” now displays basic location details and account history, allowing users to see where profiles are truly based. Early findings show that a number of high-traffic accounts promoting far-right narratives originate outside the United States.
The update arrives amid renewed scrutiny of political manipulation on social media. X—formerly known as Twitter—has already faced widespread criticism for reducing moderation and loosening policies on misleading content. The new tool, rolled out over the weekend by X product chief Nikita Bier, is intended to counter some of these concerns. It provides information such as when an account was created and the region it operates from, a move the company says will boost transparency.
Within hours of the rollout, users uncovered prominent political accounts claiming U.S. identities but posting from abroad. One profile known as @AmericanGuyX, which presented itself as belonging to a Florida resident, was found to be operated from India. Another widely followed Trump-supporting account, boasting more than half a million followers, also traced back to India. Many of these profiles frequently share inflammatory political content, typically amplifying right-wing themes and criticizing liberal public figures.
Analysts say the financial structure of X is partly fueling this trend. The platform’s creator monetization program pays users based on engagement levels, which encourages provocative posts—regardless of whether the accounts behind them are authentic. This has created an incentive for foreign operators to exploit U.S. political tensions for financial gain.
The policy environment under Elon Musk has also allowed these accounts to flourish. Despite rules prohibiting manufactured identities and AI-generated profile photos, enforcement has been inconsistent, particularly for accounts aligned with right-leaning political viewpoints. Several profiles exposed by the new tool have already begun rewriting their bios or issuing explanations for their locations. One account, @honeymoon250, updated its description to claim the operator was a nurse working with NGOs in Africa after its Nigerian location was revealed.
The emergence of foreign-run political accounts once again raises concerns about digital interference in American political discussions. With the 2026 election season approaching, experts warn that identifying and addressing these influence networks will be essential to maintaining public trust in online political dialogue.
