Senators Discuss Bipartisan Russia Sanctions Bill and Honor Lindsey Graham’s Legacy

Sens. Jeanne Shaheen and Katie Britt have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at sanctioning Russia. During a discussion with Shannon Bream, Sen. Shaheen stressed the need to exert pressure on Vladimir Putin. Sen. Britt noted the late Sen. Lindsey Graham’s strong stance on Iran.

Washington, D.C., is preparing to bid farewell to Sen. Lindsey Graham, who passed away at 71. His last legislative effort is close to completion. Graham will be honored twice in Washington before being taken to South Carolina. Lawmakers and world leaders will participate, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy will speak to lawmakers as the Senate considers Graham’s sanctions against Russia for its actions in Ukraine.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal highlighted the sanctions’ importance, quoting Graham, ‘It’s a big effing deal.’ He expressed pride in their collaboration and the bill’s significance to Graham’s legacy. Blumenthal and others have updated the legislation and renamed it to honor Graham, following a request by his sister and new Sen. Darline Graham.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune has scheduled the sanctions vote. The package includes sanctions against Iran. Thune is collaborating with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, expecting bipartisan support. He hopes the procedural vote succeeds.

The bill maintains core elements: sanctions on Russian President Putin, officials, and military leaders, high tariffs on imports, and sanctions on countries buying Russian energy. It allows President Donald Trump discretion over some sanctions. New changes include a ‘national interest certification’ for Trump’s waiver authority and sanctions on Russia’s shadow fleet. Passage would honor Graham’s Washington career.

Rep. William Timmons, a close friend of Graham, remembered their golf games and Graham’s dedication to public service, seeing it as his life’s focus.

Alex Miller, writing for Fox News Digital, covers U.S. Senate affairs.