House Democrats Consider Tariff Authority Amid Russia Sanctions Legislation

<p>House Democrats are facing a decision regarding whether to grant President Donald Trump additional tariff authority while also addressing a sanctions bill aimed at Russia and Iran. The House Rules Committee has scheduled votes on several bills this week, including the Senate's legislation targeting sanctions against Russia.</p><p>This bill is named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, a supporter of Ukraine who passed away in July at the age of 71. While many Democrats support measures to assist Ukraine in response to Russia's invasion, they are concerned about the bill's provisions that would enhance Trump's ability to impose tariffs on Russia and its allies.</p><p>Democrats have previously criticized Trump's use of tariffs against U.S. allies, which has led to various legal challenges. Senior House Democrats have indicated their opposition to the bill, stating that it would expand presidential tariff powers without mandating sanctions on Russia.</p><p>Rep. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., along with other Democratic leaders, expressed their concerns in a statement, emphasizing that the bill could do more harm than good. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., reiterated the party's commitment to supporting Ukraine while addressing concerns about granting Trump authority that should belong to Congress.</p><p>The proposed legislation would allow the president to impose tariffs of up to 500% on Russia and 100% on countries purchasing Russian energy. It also includes provisions for significant sanctions against Russian officials responsible for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.</p><p>The bill advanced through the House Rules Committee on Monday, setting the stage for a procedural vote on Tuesday. If approved, the full House is expected to vote on the sanctions bill on Wednesday.</p><p>With a growing isolationist faction within the House GOP, support from some Democrats may be necessary for the bill's passage. The sanctions package, which has been under discussion for nearly two years, is being pushed by Senator Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., and Graham.</p><p>Blumenthal defended the tariff provisions, stating that any unlawful actions by Trump would be subject to judicial review, similar to past tariff disputes. Despite some concerns raised by Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., the majority of Senate Democrats have supported limited tariff authority for Trump in exchange for stringent sanctions against Russia.</p><p>Senator Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., received assurances from U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer that the tariffs included in the sanctions package would be limited to the top five energy trading partners of Russia.</p>