WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday authorizing sanctions against foreigners who meddle in U.S. elections, a move that counters critics who claim he has not taking election security seriously enough. The executive order covers not just interference with campaign infrastructure, but it also covers the distribution of disinformation and propaganda, national security adviser John Bolton told reporters. Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats speaks during a press briefing at the White House. He said the order also directs intelligence officials to conduct an assessment after elections to inform the public about what might have occurred. Trump has drawn widespread criticism for not taking threats to the U.S. electoral system seriously enough, particularly Russian interference in the 2016 presidential race.

Source: thestar September 12, 2018 17:26 UTC