SE North Carolina News

Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) helped introduce the Preventing Foreign Interference in American Elections Act alongside Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN).

The legislation aims to prevent foreign nationals from funding U.S. elections through various means, including indirect contributions and donations for specific election-related activities. It also prohibits foreign nationals from donating in connection with state ballot initiatives.

The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Roger Marshall (R-KS).

Senator Budd emphasized the importance of addressing foreign influence in elections, stating: “Restoring institutional trust in our elections is one of the most important issues we face, and stopping foreign influence is a significant concern. Foreign nationals should not be allowed to improperly tip the scales in U.S. elections in any way, and I’m glad to join Senator Hagerty’s legislation to stop it.”

Senator Hagerty highlighted the need to address covert foreign influence in American elections, pointing out recent instances where foreign contributions have influenced the electoral process. He stated: “This type of influence undermines democracy and self-government here in America, and its staggering scope should be alarming. I’m pleased to introduce this commonsense and critical legislation that will put an end to covert foreign influence on our elections and protect Americans’ voice in electing their leaders.”