Senator Lindsey Graham’s final legislative push nears completion as world leaders and U.S. officials gather in Washington to honor the late South Carolina Republican, whose bipartisan sanctions bill faces a critical Senate vote amid his funeral services.
Graham, who died suddenly on July 11 at 71, had championed the bill as a cornerstone of his foreign policy legacy, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., positioning it for a key procedural vote just hours after Graham’s National Cathedral funeral service.
Bipartisan Sanctions Bill Nears Vote Amid Funeral Arrangements
The sanctions package, now including sanctions against Iran, includes measures against Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russian officials and Russian military leaders, up to 500% tariffs on Russian imports, tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian energy, like China and India, and a “national interest certification” for Trump’s sanction waiver authority. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., called it a huge achievement for him
and emphasized its significance as part of Graham’s profoundly significant
career. The bill’s progression mirrored Graham’s long-standing advocacy for tough measures against adversarial regimes, a stance that had defined his career.
Thune, who had previously discussed the package with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., framed the legislation as a unifying effort. I hope to, you know, the motion to get on it will be a very big bipartisan vote,
he said, citing optimism about crossing party lines. The bill’s inclusion of Iran-focused provisions aligned with Graham’s earlier warnings about Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
Funeral Services Highlight Global Tributes and Political Legacy
Graham’s funeral in Washington, D.C., drew international attention, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy among the attendees. The schedule underscored Graham’s influence on global diplomacy, particularly his role as a bridge between the White House and Capitol Hill during Trump’s administration.
Trump, who had a complex relationship with Graham, was expected to deliver remarks at the National Cathedral service. The former president, who once clashed with Graham during the 2016 primary, later relied on the senator as a key ally. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., described their dynamic as a unique chemistry
that shaped GOP foreign policy, while GOP Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick noted Graham’s role as a counterbalance to other people around the president.
Legacy of a Diplomatic Connector and Legislative Fighter
He was the linchpin in so many conversations and so many moments,
said GOP Sen. Katie Britt of Alabama, referencing Graham’s frequent diplomatic missions, including his final trip to Kyiv days before his death.
Blumenthal, who co-authored the sanctions bill, reflected on Graham’s final days, recalling their last conversation about the legislation. Those were among the last comments he made to me. Neither of us knowing, you know, that he was going to pass,
Blumenthal said, underscoring the bill’s symbolic importance as a tribute to Graham’s career. The senator’s death left a void in Capitol Hill’s foreign policy apparatus, with many lawmakers acknowledging his role.
Next Steps: Senate Vote and Unanswered Questions
The sanctions bill’s fate hinges on a critical Senate vote, with Thune aiming for a bipartisan majority. While some lawmakers had issues with the bill, Blumenthal remained optimistic, stating, I hope it passes.
We're not there yet.
Meanwhile, the full implications of his death on U.S. foreign policy remain uncertain, as GOP leaders grapple with the absence of a figure who once embodied both hawkishness and bipartisan pragmatism.
