Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.) joined forces with Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) on Friday to introduce the Strategic Ports Reporting Act, a bipartisan push to counter the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) growing grip on global maritime networks.
The legislation, mirrored in the House by Reps. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.), Rob Wittman (R-Va.), Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.), and Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.), aims to safeguard America’s critical ports by mandating a detailed assessment of China’s activities and vulnerabilities in U.S. and allied maritime infrastructure.
READ: Wisconsin, Iowa Sens Demand Biden Records From National Archives: ‘Americans Deserve Answers’
The bill responds to mounting concerns over Chinese companies’ ownership stakes in key ports worldwide, including near strategic chokepoints like the Panama Canal, and their dominance in the maritime industry.
It requires the Departments of Defense and State, alongside other agencies, to report on CCP influence, pinpoint ports vital to U.S. national and economic security, and recommend countermeasures. “The Chinese Communist Party’s increasing influence over global trade routes and strategic infrastructure poses a direct threat to the United States’ national security and economic stability,” Scott said. “The United States must respond decisively … to eliminate any influence or access Communist China has to the critical infrastructure of the U.S. and its allies that may be used against us.”
READ: Stephen Miller Says Zelenskyy Finally Met The Western Leader Who Won’t Bow Down
Sen. Budd, citing a January Senate Commerce Committee hearing on China’s sway over the Panama Canal, framed the bill as a wake-up call. “This hearing highlighted China’s increasing malign activities around the world and efforts to control global trade,” he said. “The first step is comprehensive monitoring of PRC activities at domestic and foreign ports that threaten our national interest.” Sen. Kelly, a former Navy pilot, added, “China’s growing influence over the oceans can have serious consequences for our national security and economy. This bipartisan bill will strengthen our global maritime leadership.”
In the House, Rep. Huizenga emphasized the urgency of a united front. “The expansionist policies and strategic investments being pursued by the Chinese Communist Party … are challenges that Republicans and Democrats must confront together,” he said. Rep. Wittman linked the bill to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, warning it “degrades our ability to operate in strategic ports necessary for commercial and military purposes.” Reps. Auchincloss and Olszewski underscored ports as historic power centers, with Auchincloss noting, “The United States must not allow China the upper hand,” and Olszewski stressing protection of supply chains and global standing.
READ: Illinois Rep. Jesús Garcia Slams ICE For Arresting Twice-Deported Violent Gang Member At A School
The move comes as the Trump administration ramps up efforts to counter Beijing’s economic and military reach, spotlighting vulnerabilities in U.S. infrastructure. Chinese firms like COSCO Shipping and Hutchison Ports control significant port operations globally, raising fears of espionage or disruption in times of conflict.
The Strategic Ports Reporting Act seeks to arm policymakers with data to thwart such risks, potentially paving the way for stricter ownership rules or enhanced security measures.
With bipartisan backing in both chambers, the bill signals a rare consensus on China policy amid a fractious Congress. Its fate now hinges on committee reviews and floor votes, but its sponsors are banking on its national security pitch to propel it forward. For Scott and his allies, it’s a critical step to reclaim maritime dominance—and ensure America’s ports don’t become pawns in Beijing’s global chess game.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.