Rep. Cline Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Foreign Influence in State and Local Ballot Initiatives

Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06), alongside Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), introduced the Protecting Ballot Measures From Foreign Influence Act of 2025, which would prohibit contributions and donations from foreign nationals seeking to influence state and local ballot initiatives and referenda.

"Foreign nationals should have absolutely no role in influencing the outcome of American elections, whether at the federal, state, or local level. My Protecting Ballot Measures From Foreign Influence Act closes a dangerous loophole by ensuring that ballot initiatives and referenda are decided by American citizens alone, not foreign money or foreign interests. This commonsense legislation strengthens election integrity and reaffirms that the future of our communities must be determined by those who live in them," said Rep. Ben Cline.

"Folks of all political stripes agree that U.S. citizens, not foreign nationals should determine the outcome of U.S. elections," said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. "Ballot measures can have an immense impact on life in the United States, and they must be protected from the whims of international bad actors. I take seriously my duty to keep our elections safe, secure, and solely decided by the American people."

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and a Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.