Griffith Votes for Ban on Russian Energy Imports

Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 6968, the Suspending Energy Imports from Russia Act:

“The bill on the floor today is far from satisfactory. President Biden rightfully imposed a ban on Russian oil imports, but only under bipartisan pressure and the possibility of strong congressional action. His Administration followed up on the import ban by successfully pressuring Democrats in Congress to weaken our bill to target the Russian economy and increase costs on Putin’s regime. I am concerned about the muddled messages being sent to Moscow.

“That’s why I voted for a motion to recommit offered by Congressman Kevin Brady that would have strengthened the underlying bill by revoking permanent normal trade relations with Russia and moving toward American energy independence. Democrats rejected this measure and in doing so passed up a chance to stand stronger for Ukraine and our own citizens.

“Nevertheless, I voted for this bill to enshrine in law the ban on Russian energy imports. President Biden must not waive this measure, and Congress should be ready to stop him from backsliding. Further, he should reverse his policies suppressing domestic energy production to ease the costs here of cutting off Russian energy.”