In a rare show of unity, the U.S. Senate voted 88–2 on Thursday to pass a bill cracking down on foreign influence in American elections—a move that reportedly caught Donald Trump off guard.
The legislation tightens rules on foreign lobbying, requires full disclosure of foreign-funded political ads, and imposes severe penalties for violations, including asset seizures and prison sentences. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called the bill “about protecting the American people’s voice.”
Bipartisan support followed classified intelligence briefings detailing new, aggressive efforts by foreign actors to manipulate U.S. political discourse, including from countries not previously seen as threats. Several Trump-aligned Republicans backed the bill, surprising even Trump’s inner circle.
While Trump has long dismissed election interference concerns, the vote suggests a shift among some conservatives ahead of the 2026 midterms. Only two senators opposed the measure, citing First Amendment concerns.
The bill now heads to the House, where early indications point to strong bipartisan support. If enacted, it would represent one of the most forceful efforts to curb foreign political interference in modern U.S. history.
