Congressman Crow Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Limit Foreign Interference in U.S. Elections

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) has introduced new bipartisan legislation to crack down on corruption and limit the influence of foreign money in U.S. elections. 

While campaign finance law limits foreign nations from contributing to campaigns or engaging in most political activity, there are currently few restrictions in place to prevent a foreign national or government from creating shell companies to covertly funnel money into American elections.

Congressman Crow’s Shell Company Abuse Act would close this longstanding loophole by making it a felony to establish or use a corporation, company, or business entity to conceal illegal political activity by a foreign national. The legislation was also introduced by Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01).

“American elections should be decided by American voters, not foreign citizens or governments,” said Congressman Crow. “I’ve long fought against corruption and special interests, and that's why today I’m introducing bipartisan legislation to prevent foreign nationals and governments from covertly funneling money into our elections.”

“Allowing foreign money to flow into our elections through anonymous shell companies is a threat to everything our democracy stands for,” said Congressman Bell. “Americans have the right to choose their leaders without interference from hidden foreign interests. This bill is about drawing a clear line — our elections belong to the people, and no one else.”

“Foreign nationals are already prohibited from donating to federal elections, but some individuals have attempted to skirt this law by creating shell companies to conceal these illegal activities,” said Congressman Bacon. “I’m pleased to join Rep. Bell on this legislation to keep integrity in our political process.”

Congressman Crow is a leading voice in the fight to end corruption. Recently, he introduced the End Dark Money Act, critical legislation to crack down on corruption and end dark money influencing U.S. elections. He previously served as the co-chair of the End Corruption Caucus, and has introduced several other pieces of legislation, including the SHINE Act, DISCLOSE Act, and TRUST in Congress, to end the influence of special interests in elections.

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