Cori Bush Statement on Suspending Energy Imports from Russia Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01), released the below statement following her vote in opposition to H.R. 6968 – Suspending Energy Imports from Russia Act.
“I support sanctions that target the murderous Putin regime, Russian oligarchs, and corporate fossil fuel executives profiting off human suffering. I opposed the House bill to ban oil imports from Russia because it fails to address the underlying problem of imposing sanctions that are not accompanied with a clear diplomatic process for de-escalation, incentives for a ceasefire, and a condition of withdrawal of Russian military forces in Ukraine. I also have deep concerns that the push for a statutory ban is being used to justify even more dangerous drilling at home and increased imports from other authoritarian governments like Saudi Arabia. This approach categorically makes our communities less safe, does nothing to jumpstart our transition to renewable energy, and further burdens regular, everyday people already financially strained by the ongoing pandemic and economic crisis. As people in St. Louis and across the country face skyrocketing gas and utility prices, the urgency to reign in industry profits, enact a Green New Deal, and transition to publicly owned renewable energy has never been higher.
“Our approach to the crisis in Ukraine must be rooted in ending human suffering, ensuring accountability, and creating pathways to peace and justice for all. That’s why last week, I voted in favor of H.Res 956, which strongly condemned Putin’s invasion and affirmed the United States’ support for the Ukrainian people. I am also proud to have supported swift action by Congress to provide billions of dollars in humanitarian aid to help the millions of refugees fleeing Ukraine – this is vital funding that will save lives.”
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Congresswoman Cori Bush sits on the House Judiciary and Oversight Committees, serves as the Progressive Caucus Deputy Whip, and proudly represents St. Louis as a politivist in the halls of the United States Congress.