Representative Gregory Meeks Opposes Russia Sanctions Bill, Citing Potential Misuse of Presidential Authority
Representative Gregory Meeks (D-NY), the leading Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has voiced strong opposition to the Lindsey O. Graham Russia Sanctions Act of 2026. Meeks argues that the bill grants the President overly expansive discretion and waiver authority, which could be misused. Specifically, he warns that President Trump could weaponize this authority as a new tariff mechanism against countries like India and China. These nations were previously targets of secondary tariffs that were later deemed unconstitutional in February 2026. Meeks' concerns are echoed by other prominent Democrats, including Representative Richard Neal, the ranking member of Ways and Means. The bill, which passed the Senate 86-11 on August 7, 2026, is currently awaiting consideration in the House of Representatives. It authorizes the President to impose secondary tariffs of up to 100% on the top five importers of Russian oil and gas, as well as countries facilitating sanctions evasion or making new purchases o... 
