Sen. Dodd Condemns Russia, Calls for State Divestment

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Tuesday, March 1, 2022

SACRAMENTO – Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, issued the following statement today condemning Russia’s attack on the democratic nation of Ukraine and urging strong economic sanctions against Russia and its president, Vladimir Putin, including the immediate divestment of all California assets from Russian business:

“California stands with the Ukrainian people,” Sen. Dodd said. “Their bravery is incredible in the face of Russia’s murderous invasion. We must do everything in our power to support them and to apply maximum pressure on Russia to end this aggression. I call on other states and businesses to follow suit. Ultimately, we must hold Putin accountable for the sickening slaughter of innocent civilians.”  

Sen. Dodd is part of a broad, bipartisan coalition of California lawmakers who are co-authoring a bill to remove state funds from Russia and Russian investments following the unprovoked war in Ukraine. The bill is being introduced by Senate Majority Leader Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg.

It is believed California, which is the world’s fifth-largest economy, has Russian investments of more than $1 billion, primarily in public employee and teacher pension accounts. Part of the proposal would include blocking state contracts with Russian businesses and urging private companies to divest themselves of investment in Russia’s economy.

Sen. Dodd also urged support for humanitarian and other aid to Ukraine. He cited Robert F. Kennedy, who said when people help others or fight injustice, they send forth “a tiny ripple of hope … which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.”

“Everyone can send a ripple to build the current to end this war and stop the suffering of innocent Ukrainians,” Sen. Dodd said. “Let us pray, but let us also act.”

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.