Sens. Jeanne Shaheen and Katie Britt recently discussed their bipartisan bill aimed at imposing sanctions on Russia. They emphasized the need to exert pressure on Vladimir Putin. While discussing the bill, Sen. Britt referenced the late Sen. Lindsey Graham’s strong stance on Iran.
As Washington, D.C., prepares to honor Sen. Lindsey Graham, who passed away at 71, his last legislative effort moves closer to completion. Graham’s final journey home to South Carolina begins in Washington, where both lawmakers and world leaders will pay their respects. A ceremony will be held in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol, followed by a private funeral service at the National Cathedral.
Graham, who died suddenly, had a notable impact on national security and foreign policy. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will join others to commemorate his legacy. Zelenskyy will address lawmakers as the Senate pushes forward Graham’s goal: to impose severe sanctions on Russia due to the Ukraine conflict.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., highlighted the importance of the sanctions bill, quoting Graham’s statement: “It’s a big effing deal.” Blumenthal emphasized the bill’s significance to Graham’s legacy, expressing pride in collaborating on this effort. The bill’s name has been modified to honor Graham, a suggestion made by his sister, now-Sen. Darline Graham, R-S.C.
Blumenthal stated that significant progress is needed for the bill to pass. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., initiated a vote on the sanctions package, extending sanctions to Iran. Lawmakers will attempt to advance the legislation following Graham’s funeral service.
Thune, after discussing with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., anticipates support despite reservations from some lawmakers. Thune expressed optimism about a major bipartisan vote to proceed with the motion, possibly paving the way for the bill’s completion.
The bill maintains core components: sanctions on Putin, Russian officials, and military leaders, and severe tariffs on Russian imports and nations purchasing Russian energy. It authorizes the President to adjust sanctions, now including a “national interest certification” for waivers, alongside measures targeting Russia’s covert energy exports.
Passing this package would represent a significant part of Graham’s public service legacy. Rep. William Timmons, R-S.C., a close friend to Graham, reflected on Graham’s dedication to public service, recounting personal experiences shared with him. Timmons remarked that public service was Graham’s ultimate purpose, whether in military or congressional roles.