In a rare moment of unity, the U.S. Senate stunned the nation on Thursday with an overwhelming 88–2 vote approving a bill designed to curb foreign influence in American elections — a move that reportedly caught even Donald Trump by surprise.
The legislation imposes strict regulations on foreign lobbying, requires full disclosure of overseas funding behind political ads, and introduces severe criminal penalties for violators, including asset seizures and lengthy prison terms.
“This goes beyond politics,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. “It’s about defending the voice of the American people.”
The bill drew bipartisan support, including from several pro-Trump Republicans, after classified briefings revealed new, sophisticated foreign efforts to manipulate U.S. discourse — even from nations once seen as allies.
Only two senators voted against the measure, citing First Amendment concerns, but most agreed reform was long overdue. The proposal now moves to the House, where early signs point to broad backing. If enacted, it would represent one of the toughest crackdowns on foreign interference in U.S. history.

