Alabama House Passes Bill Banning Foreign Influence in Elections

Legislation aims to prevent foreign nationals from donating to state political candidates and ballot measures

Feb. 3, 2026 at 7:15pm

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The Alabama House of Representatives has passed a bill that would ban foreign nationals from directly or indirectly donating to political candidates or political action committees in any state election, including those involving candidates, constitutional amendments, or referendums. The bill, sponsored by Rep. James Lomax of Huntsville, is intended to close loopholes in federal law that have allowed foreign funding to influence ballot measures across the United States.

Why it matters

This legislation is a response to concerns about foreign interference in U.S. elections, particularly through the use of "dark money" groups to influence state-level ballot measures. By prohibiting foreign donations to state-level political campaigns and ballot initiatives, the bill aims to ensure that Alabama's elections are decided by its own residents rather than foreign entities with potential ulterior motives.

The details

House Bill 214 bans foreign nationals and business entities from contributing directly or indirectly to political candidates or political action committees in any Alabama election, including those involving candidates, constitutional amendments, or referendums. This goes beyond current federal law, which already prohibits foreign nationals from donating to federal political campaigns. The bill is intended to close loopholes that have allowed foreign money to influence state-level ballot measures across the country.

  • The Alabama House of Representatives passed House Bill 214 on February 3, 2026.

The players

James Lomax

A state representative from Huntsville, Alabama who sponsored House Bill 214.

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What they’re saying

“Elections should be decided by the people who live, work, and raise their families in this state – not by foreign entities with ulterior financial or political motives.”

— James Lomax, State Representative

What’s next

House Bill 214 now heads to the Alabama State Senate for consideration.

The takeaway

This legislation is part of a broader effort to combat foreign interference in U.S. elections, particularly at the state and local level where loopholes have allowed foreign money to influence ballot measures. By prohibiting foreign donations, Alabama aims to ensure its elections are decided by its own residents rather than outside interests.