Ceremony Honoring the Life and Legacy of Lindsey Graham at the Capitol
Chief Congressional Correspondent Chad Pergram reported on the evacuation of Senator Lindsey Graham from the Capitol following a memorial service. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is set to engage with lawmakers ahead of a Senate vote on a sanctions bill regarding Russia that Graham had a significant role in negotiating.
The Senate has made an initial move toward enacting one of Lindsey Graham’s key objectives: stringent sanctions against Russia. With broad bipartisan support, the sanctions package passed its first test with an 86-12 vote. This legislative effort has evolved through various drafts, primarily led by Graham and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D). Blumenthal clarified that the main goal is to halt Russian oil and gas purchases, which sustain President Putin’s military actions.
“The battle in Ukraine is ours to fight,” Blumenthal emphasized. “No one felt that more deeply or passionately than Lindsey Graham. He truly embodied it. This vote marks progress.”
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This significant vote also marks a major achievement for Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), who has successfully advanced two substantial bills this summer with overwhelming bipartisan support, even amid a highly polarized Senate. Hours after lawmakers and dignitaries paid their last respects to Graham in Washington, the sanctions package underwent further revisions.
A bipartisan coalition led by Senator Darling Graham (R-SC), a supporter of Blumenthal’s sanctions efforts, announced an agreement to rename the legislation in honor of the late senator while enhancing sanctions against Iran.
Legislators believe that the best way to honor Graham and solidify his legacy is to pass the new Lindsey O. Graham Russia-Iran Sanctions Act, reflecting his strong commitment to supporting Ukraine.
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“My very first conversation with Lindsey Graham revolved around Russia sanctions,” remarked Senator Jon Husted (R-Ohio). “He was quite passionate about this topic, and I believe sanctions are one of the most effective routes to conclude the war without sending in troops.”
As Blumenthal pointed out, the bill’s focus remains on undermining President Putin’s military initiatives by targeting oil and gas revenues, which are critical for Russia.
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The updated proposal also broadens sanctioning authorities against Iran, cutting off funding for its weapons and energy industries as various parties strive for a lasting peace in ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts.
Additionally, the package includes targeted sanctions against Putin and senior Russian military officials, imposing tariffs of up to 500% on Russian imports and as much as 100% on nations purchasing Russian energy, including China and India.
Furthermore, it gives President Donald Trump discretion regarding the timing of lifting certain sanctions and other actions.
Senator Katie Britt (R-AL), one of the bill’s original sponsors, is actively encouraging the House to expedite its passage as they are currently out until the end of August. “I’m optimistic that the House will return promptly and approve this legislation; once we cross that finish line, impactful changes will follow,” Britt stated.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelensky, a close ally of Graham, attended the senator’s funeral and spoke with President Trump and congressional members to advocate for sanctions and improvements to ballistic missile defenses in the conflict with Russia.
Zelensky expressed his sympathies to President Trump over Graham’s death, reflecting, “He was a genuine friend to Ukraine.” He elaborated on discussions regarding the development of Patriot missile interceptors and the importance of rejuvenating diplomatic efforts.
After a private meeting with lawmakers, President Zelensky watched the Senate vote from the gallery, displaying his intent to push forward after several delays.
