Congress Announces Intent to Investigate Russia's Role in 2016 U.S. Presidential Election | Sojourners

Congress Announces Intent to Investigate Russia's Role in 2016 U.S. Presidential Election

On Dec. 11, a bipartisan group of senators — including Republican Sens. John McCain and Lindsey Graham, and Democratic Sens. Chuck Schumer and Jack Reed — released a joint statement announcing their intent to investigate whether Russia swayed, or attempted to sway, the 2016 U.S. presidential election to elect Donald Trump.

On Dec. 12, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced his support for their efforts and stated that the Senate intelligence committee should lead the investigation, reports Politico.

“I agree with Senator Schumer, Chairman McCain, [Senator Richard] Burr, and others, this simply cannot be a partisan issue,” said Senator McConnell.

His announcement came after reports revealed the Central Intelligence Agency's conclusion that Russia involved itself in the 2016 presidential election, through hacks and cyberattacks, and may have swayed the election’s outcome. On Dec. 9, President Obama ordered the intelligence community to investigate Russia’s role in the election.

House Speaker Paul Ryan has also voiced his support for Congress’ investigation of Russia. 

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