House Passes Lindsey Graham Sanctions Act, Sending Anti-Russia Bill to President's Desk

The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved a comprehensive sanctions bill aimed at intensifying economic pressure on Russia and Iran, fulfilling a legislative priority of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham. The bill, titled the "Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026," passed with a vote of 262-159 and now heads to President Trump's desk. Graham, who championed the legislation, died two months prior at age 71. The bill previously passed the Senate with broad bipartisan support.

The legislation targets entities supporting the Kremlin's ongoing war in Ukraine, as well as efforts to curb funding for Iran's energy and weapons programs. Despite its swift passage through the Senate, the bill faced a more hesitant reception in the House, with its consideration delayed for months. Questions had lingered regarding whether it would receive a vote before the midterm elections.

Concerns were raised during the House debate about the potential for President Trump to abuse tariff authorities, a point voiced by Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.). Beyer argued that the bill contained a loophole that could allow the president to designate any country as a facilitator evading Russian sanctions. However, proponents of the bill, including Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), asserted that it was crucial for resolving the conflict in Ukraine. McCaul stated that the bill would compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate and prevent further expansionist actions into Eastern Europe.

Supporters of the bill, led by McCaul in the House, argued that it would force Russian President Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table. "Evil is on the march, history is calling, and now is the time to act," McCaul said on the House floor, emphasizing that the legislation would curb Putin's ambitions and prevent further incursions into Eastern Europe. He added that passing the sanctions bill would be a fitting tribute to Graham's life and legacy.

The bill grants the president the authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on any nation that purchases Russian energy, a provision that could impact countries like China and India. The legislation gained significant momentum following Graham's death. In the Senate, the bill passed 86-11 last month, following advocacy from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who met with lawmakers and observed a procedural vote from the Senate chamber.