Hartzler supports election security sanctions

Cites recent foreign tampering at University of Missouri

Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) released the following statement regarding the President’s executive order to sanction nations that have interfered with U.S elections.

“The actions by the White House are a necessary step to address foreign tampering in our elections. Election security is paramount to a strong and well-functioning democracy, and securing elections is fundamental if we are to guarantee the integrity of the election process. Fair elections are a hallmark of our republic and this executive order will help address this issue.”

Hartzler noted that in 2015, Russia’s disinformation campaign against the United States impacted Missouri directly. Research conducted by U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Jared Pier found that the same Russian trolls involved in the 2016 presidential election interjected themselves in the 2015 protests at the University of Missouri with the goal of inciting further unrest and spreading discord and fear. Congresswoman spoke on the House floor in April about this interference.

Background: The President signed an executive order Wednesday afternoon directing U.S. agencies to report after each federal election whether foreign interference has occurred. The order then authorizes the U.S. government to take action against any individual or entity who is determined to have committed such interference. The President’s order also establishes a universal definition for election infrastructure and foreign interference.