U.S. government officials linked to information leak involving influencer

A controversy has emerged involving the U.S. Department of State and the Pentagon regarding the handling of information intended for social media leaks. Influencer Jennica Pounds, also known as @DataRepublican, reportedly received information concerning Cuba to be leaked on social media platforms.

It has been identified that a Department of State official provided the information and that Pounds serves as a special employee for the U.S. Department of War. While the U.S. government acknowledged an attempt at a leak that did not materialize, a high-ranking official involved in the matter described the leaked material as a ‘nothingburger.’

The incident has drawn criticism regarding the use of public funds to hire influencers as advisors and the potential use of such individuals to disseminate political narratives.