GOP senator blocks bill aimed at preventing Russia election meddling

https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/473994-gop-senator-blocks-bill-aimed-at-preventing-russia-election-meddling?fbclid=IwAR0cEp3IGvsbA-55QsfdazfQlEsD84-qLGFn9EwpwufFtd0Wr9Z9ioyqZnk

By Jordain Carney - 12/10/19 07:17 PM EST

Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) on Tuesday blocked an attempt by Democrats to pass legislation meant to prevent Russia and other countries from interfering in elections.

Crapo's move came after Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) asked for consent to pass the Defending Elections from Threats by Establishing Redlines, or DETER Act. Van Hollen argued the bill would underscore that there would be a "very tough price to pay" if Moscow meddles in U.S. elections.

"It's designed to send a very clear and simple message to Russia or any other country that is thinking about interfering in our elections and undermining our democracy that if we catch you, you will suffer a severe penalty," Van Hollen said.

Van Hollen and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) re-introduced the bill earlier this year. It requires the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to determine whether there was any foreign interference in federal elections and impose sanctions on any nations found to interfere.

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