Congressman Pat Harrigan voted on March 27 in favor of H.R. 7084, the Defending American Property Abroad Act of 2026, which aims to impose consequences on foreign governments that unlawfully seize or nationalize U.S.-owned ports and infrastructure.
The bill seeks to protect American investments and property rights overseas by establishing retaliatory measures against such actions. Supporters say the legislation is intended to deter future seizures and ensure respect for American ownership.
“If a foreign regime wants to steal American property, they can forget about doing business in American waters,” said Congressman Harrigan. “This bill makes it clear that there are real consequences for targeting American companies and undermining the rule of law. We are going to defend our assets, our investments, and our economic strength.”
The Defending American Property Abroad Act would bar vessels from entering U.S. ports if they have used facilities that were seized from Americans in the Western Hemisphere. The legislation uses maritime policy as leverage against foreign governments accused of unlawful seizures.
Harrigan said House Republicans are making a strong statement against attempts by foreign governments to exploit U.S. businesses and called on the Senate to consider the bill.
In related political developments, Pat Harrigan won his seat by defeating Ralph R. Scott, Jr., earning 57.5% of the vote compared to Scott’s 38.2%, according to Ballotpedia.
