New House Bill Eyes Sanctions to Counter China’s 'Political Warfare'

Rep. Jim Banks, R-Ind., introduced a bill March 13 that would impose financial sanctions on people or groups that engage in anti-U.S. "political warfare," such as spreading propaganda, on behalf of a foreign government, especially China’s.

The proposed “Countering China’s Political Warfare Act” also would require the State Department to determine if sanctions are warranted for the United Front Work Department, an overseas influence arm of the Chinese Communist Party that has "targeted our universities, state and local lawmakers, business associations and even Congress," Banks said.

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., introduced a companion bill in the Senate.