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Statement on Trump-Putin Summit

July 16, 2018

Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), released the below statement following President Donald Trump's meeting and press conference in Helsinki with Russian President Vladimir Putin:

"By accepting Vladimir Putin's transparent denials of Russia's interference in our 2016 election, President Trump today chose to side with a foreign dictator over our own intelligence and law enforcement agencies. The President's comments are particularly outrageous coming just days after Special Counsel Mueller indicted 12 Russian operatives for election meddling, including reportedly targeting our State Board of Elections in Illinois.

"In addition, President Trump ignored or downplayed Russia's reprehensible international behavior, including its support for the murderous Assad regime in Syria, illegal occupation of Crimea, and ongoing war in Eastern Ukraine. Over the course of his European trip, President Trump was harsher to our NATO allies than to Vladimir Putin.

"Protecting our elections and holding Russia accountable must not be partisan issues. I urge my Republican colleagues to join with Democrats and speak out against President Trump's shameful display and demand action to protect our elections. Silence will only further embolden Putin's aggression."

Background:

Schneider introduced the DETER Act with Rep. Ros Lehtinen (R-FL) and Sens. Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). The legislation would impose harsh, automatic sanctions on Russia for future interference. Ensuring there are consequences will help prevent future interference and secure our elections. – Press Release

Schneider met in February 2018 with the County Clerks of Cook and Lake County to discuss their efforts to improve election security. – Press Release

Schneider introduced with Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) legislation to strengthen the Global Engagement Center – the State Department Office tasked with leading U.S. efforts to counter foreign disinformation and propaganda campaigns. – Press Release