“The emails released on sites like WikiLeaks are consistent with methods and motivations of Russian directed efforts,” James Clapper said. | AP Photo Clapper calls Russia hacking a 'new aggressive spin on the political cycle'

Director of National Intelligence James Clapper on Thursday called Russia’s alleged hacking and interference with the U.S. election a “new aggressive spin on the political cycle.”

Clapper and Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson issued a statement earlier this month, accusing the Russian government of deploying hackers to meddle in this election season, which has seen breaches of the Democratic National Committee and the personal email of Hillary Clinton's campaign chairman John Podesta.


“The emails released on sites like WikiLeaks are consistent with methods and motivations of Russian-directed efforts,” Clapper said before a security summit on Thursday. “We wouldn’t have made [the statement] unless we were very confident."

He added that, “Going after U.S. political organizations is a new aggressive spin on the political cycle. Regardless, the election will happen on Nov 8.”

Clapper also expressed confidence in the integrity of the election process, despite the hacks that have targeted Democrats. “It would be very difficult for someone or anyone to actually interfere with ballot counts or election results with a cyber-intrusion because they are not connected to the internet," he said.

