Kean Introduces Legislation to Protect Americans from Undisclosed Foreign Influence

(November 12, 2025) WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) introduced the Defending Against Foreign Propaganda Act, legislation that requires clear disclosure on any advertisement paid for by a foreign government or foreign entity that runs in the United States. The bill ensures that Americans know when a message they see or hear is being funded by a foreign government — protecting transparency, national integrity, and trust in U.S. institutions.

“In recent months, we have seen foreign governments, including allies like Canada, run ads in the United States aimed at influencing public opinion and policy debates,” said Congressman Kean. “Americans deserve to know when they are being targeted by messaging that originates from a foreign government. It is the American people who are the decision-makers in our policy debates, so we must ensure foreign governments can never hide their attempts to influence them."

Under the Defending Against Foreign Propaganda Act, advertisements paid for by a foreign government or foreign person must clearly disclose that sponsorship. The disclosure must appear in both written and audio form, where applicable, ensuring viewers and listeners can easily identify the source of the message. The legislation tasks the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) with enforcing these requirements and treating violations as deceptive advertising practices.

Congressman Kean serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

A copy of the bill text is available HERE. 

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