Nearly Unanimous Senate Decision Stuns Everyone — Including Trump. In a political climate known for division, the U.S. Senate delivered a shock on Thursday: a sweeping 88-2 vote in favor of a bill aimed at curbing foreign influence in American elections — and even Donald Trump didn’t see it coming. The new legislation enforces strict rules on foreign lobbying, demands full disclosure of foreign funds behind political advertisements, and imposes tough criminal penalties for violations, including asset seizures and multi-year prison sentences.

In a rare display of bipartisanship, the U.S. Senate passed a landmark bill Thursday by an overwhelming 88-2 vote, aimed at curbing foreign influence in American elections—catching even Donald Trump off guard. The legislation enforces strict rules on foreign lobbying, requires full disclosure of foreign funding behind political ads, and imposes severe criminal penalties, including asset seizures and multi-year prison sentences for violations.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called it “bigger than politics,” emphasizing the need to protect Americans’ voices. Support came from both parties, including several Trump-loyal Republicans, reportedly spurred by classified intelligence showing aggressive tactics from foreign actors, even from previously friendly nations. Trump’s allies did not warn him in advance, leaving him “blindsided,” according to a former aide.

Only two senators opposed the measure over First Amendment concerns, though even critics acknowledged foreign influence had gone unchecked for too long. The bill now moves to the House, where early indications suggest strong bipartisan backing, potentially landing on President Biden’s desk within weeks, marking one of the toughest U.S. crackdowns on foreign election interference.