Senators Shaheen and Britt Discuss Bipartisan Russia Sanctions Bill

Shannon Bream recently talked with Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Katie Britt about a new bipartisan initiative aiming to impose sanctions on Russia. Shaheen underscored the pressing need to apply pressure on President Vladimir Putin, while Britt referenced the late Senator Lindsey Graham’s strong stance on matters related to Iran.

As D.C. prepares to bid farewell to the late Graham, his last legislative initiative draws closer to completion. Graham, who passed away unexpectedly at 71 earlier this month, will begin his final journey to South Carolina this Tuesday. Lawmakers and dignitaries are expected to gather to pay tribute to the dedicated public servant.

On Tuesday, Graham will be honored with two commemorative events in Washington: the first in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda that morning, followed by a private funeral at the National Cathedral.

Despite Trump’s endorsement of Senator Darling Graham to fill Lindsey Graham’s role, many top Senate Republicans are standing firm in their stances.

The funeral will be succeeded by a memorial in South Carolina, signaling the close of a political journey that saw Graham advance from his modest upbringing in his parents’ courtroom to a prominent role in national security and foreign policy.

His impact resonated globally, with figures like Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy acknowledging Graham’s influence. Zelenskiy is set to meet with lawmakers on Tuesday morning as the Senate gears up for Graham’s priority: implementing substantial sanctions on Russia in retaliation for its actions in Ukraine.

Senator Richard Blumenthal quoted Graham when discussing the significance of future sanctions and how they relate to his legacy. “In his own words, Graham expressed that this was a significant shock, but everyone had performed well,” Blumenthal recounted. “Those were some of his last remarks to me.”

Blumenthal, alongside a bipartisan group of senators, is revisiting the sanctions bill, even considering renaming it in honor of Graham at the request of his sister, the newly appointed Senator Darling Graham.

Yet, much work remains ahead. “This will play a crucial role in his legacy, and it serves as a fitting tribute,” Blumenthal remarked. “I hope it comes to fruition. We’re still on that path.”

Last week, Senate Majority Leader John Thune prepared for a vote on the sanctions package, which may also target Iran. A vote is anticipated on Tuesday evening, just hours after Graham’s National Cathedral service.

Thune, who met with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, expressed cautious optimism about bipartisan support for the bill, although some members may voice concerns. “We’re aiming for a strong bipartisan vote,” Thune mentioned. “And achieving that could pave the way for success.”

Many elements of the forthcoming sanctions package echo previous drafts, targeting Russian officials, including President Putin, and imposing heavy tariffs on Russian imports and countries purchasing Russian energy.

Significant updates to the proposal include adding “certificate of national interest” provisions for Trump’s sanctions waivers and targeting the numerous vessels constituting Russia’s clandestine energy transport fleet.

As noted by Blumenthal, passing this sanctions bill would symbolize Graham’s enduring legacy in Washington.

Rep. William Timmons, a close friend of Graham’s, reminisced about their shared time on the golf course, reflecting on Graham’s dedication to public service. “His life revolved around serving his country, whether in the military or in Congress,” Timmons stated. “He had a truly unique approach to public service.”