Senate Advances Lindsey Graham's Tough Russia Sanctions Bill as Nation Pays Tribute to a Conservative Patriot
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Lawmakers are set to vote on a bipartisan sanctions package targeting Russia, as Americans honor the late Senator Lindsey Graham, a staunch defender of national security, in Washington and South Carolina.
Senators are moving forward with a critical bipartisan sanctions bill aimed at holding Russia accountable, even as the nation comes together to honor the late Senator Lindsey Graham, a true patriot who died at 71. Graham will be remembered in two solemn ceremonies in Washington—a public event in the Capitol rotunda and a private service at the revered National Cathedral—before further tributes in his beloved home state of South Carolina.
World leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, are expected to attend the Washington events, underscoring Graham’s global influence and America’s leadership in defending freedom. The Senate is also set to consider Graham’s signature legislation, which imposes sweeping sanctions on Russian officials, entities, and imports, and adds penalties on countries purchasing Russian energy—demonstrating America’s resolve to confront adversaries and protect its interests.
"To quote Senator Graham, ‘It’s a big effing deal. We all did well. We all did good,’" Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal said, recalling Graham’s words that reflect his unwavering commitment to doing what’s right for the country.
Blumenthal said the measure, recently renamed to honor Graham at the request of his sister, newly appointed Senator Darline Graham, is a fitting tribute to the late lawmaker’s legacy of strength and service. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated the bill, which now also includes sanctions on Iran and a certification mechanism for presidential waiver authority, will face a procedural vote on Tuesday night—another step in ensuring America’s enemies are held accountable.
"I hope the motion to get on it will be a very big bipartisan vote," Thune said, expressing hope that lawmakers will unite to defend American values and security.
Republican Representative William Timmons, a longtime friend of Graham, described the senator as singularly focused on public service throughout his career in the military and Congress—embodying the dedication and patriotism that define America’s conservative leaders.