House Passes Sanctions Bill Targeting Russia and Iran with Bipartisan Support

<p>On September 16, 2026, the House of Representatives passed a sanctions package aimed at Russia and Iran, granting President Donald Trump tariff authority over nations supporting Russia's war in Ukraine. The bill, named the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, passed with a vote of 262 to 159, with 53 Democrats joining 203 Republicans in support.</p><p>Key Democrats expressed concerns about the provision granting Trump tariff authority. Representative Richard Neal (D-Mass.) stated, "What we're not for is giving more tariff authority to this president," highlighting the lack of guarantees that the president could not misuse these tariffs against Ukraine.</p><p>House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) criticized the bill's structure, suggesting it contained loopholes that would hinder effective sanctions against Russia. The bill was led by Representative Michael McCaul (R-Texas), who emphasized the importance of the legislation in projecting American strength abroad.</p><p>The sanctions aim to target financial resources fueling Russia's military efforts, including sanctions on Russian officials, banks, and countries providing support to Russia. The legislation allows for tariffs of up to 500% on Russian imports and up to 100% on the top five countries purchasing Russian energy.</p><p>Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), who helped create the bill, defended the tariff provisions, asserting that any unlawful actions by Trump would be subject to judicial restraint. The bill will now be sent to Trump for his signature.</p><p>Two Democrats, Representatives Jared Golden (D-Maine) and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.), broke party lines to support the bill, helping to advance the legislation amid internal party disagreements.</p>