John McCain and Lindsey Graham Call for Investigation Into Russian Involvement with 2016 US Presidential Election

Congressional Republicans promise to investigate allegations of Russian involvement in the US presidential elections

Donald Trump On Russian Hacking: Of Course I Condemn Election Interference | CNBC

Despite winning in most of the contests in which they competed, United States Republican lawmakers have pledged to investigate alleged Russian involvement in the 2016 electoral process. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and John McCain of Arizona are among those GOP lawmakers calling for a thorough investigation. Commenting on the prospect of foreign involvement in the US electoral process, John McCain said, “See, the problem with hacking is that if they’re able to disrupt the elections, then it’s a national security issue, obviously.”

Graham was more direct in his statements, saying “I’m going after Russia every way you can go after Russia. I think they’re one of the most destabilizing influences on the world stage.”

During the 2016 US Presidential campaign, Donald Trump broke with long-standing GOP tradition and praised Russian leader Vladimir Putin for his “strong leadership.” According to Business Insider, Trump has “expressed some reticence about investigating Russia.” Contrary to President-elect Trump, Vice President Mike Pence stated there should be “severe consequences” if indeed Russian interference in the US elections is discovered.