Graham Admits National Security Gap in SC Debate

Senator Darline Graham faced criticism after admitting during a South Carolina debate that she was 'not that informed' about national security. The political novice appointed to fill her late brother Lindsey Graham's seat last month struggled with an elementary question about foreign policy, highlighting her focus on local issues and military support.

When asked whether the U.S. has a national security interest in Taiwan and the South China Sea, she admitted that 'national security is not my thing.' Graham instead highlighted her support for the military, citing her brother's 33-year career in the Air Force and her father's service in the Army.

Her rival in next week's runoff for the GOP nomination, Rep. Ralph Norman, suggested the answer showed Graham was unqualified for the role. 'By her choice, she's running for the United States Senate... You need to get fully versed in what issues you're going to be dealing with,' Norman said according to multiple reports.

The moment drew a stark contrast to Lindsey Graham's legacy. The late senator was known for his foreign policy involvement and had made multiple trips to Taiwan, including leading a delegation in 2022 that met with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen. Darline Graham has been asked repeatedly how she would either further or shift away from her brother's intense focus on national security.

Senator Tim Scott defended fellow US South Carolina Republican senator Darline Graham’s knowledge of national security issues ahead of their state’s runoff election, stating that he is “very confident” she is still qualified to be senator. 'It’s one of the reasons why I waited 30 days to make sure that I felt like she was ready,' Scott said on Sunday’s episode of Meet The Press.

Graham doubled down after the debate, stating that South Carolinians are more concerned about their 'pocketbooks' than international issues like the South China Sea. She also mentioned speaking multiple times during the debate about the overall national security threat posed by China. The runoff election is scheduled for August 25.

President Donald Trump endorsed Darline Graham for the U.S. Senate in South Carolina and campaigned with her on Friday, urging supporters to 'pretend I'm on the ballot' and vote for her. He emphasized the importance of voting in the upcoming election, stating that he considers the Strait of Hormuz an American territory amid ongoing tensions with Iran. Trump defended Graham's remarks about national security, calling her very smart and highlighting her focus on domestic issues like the price of groceries.

Graham has been racing to introduce herself to voters across South Carolina while repeatedly insisting she is 'not a politician.' She has made Trump's agenda central to her pitch, frequently highlighting her support for his policies and his endorsement. Among her priorities are Trump's push for tougher border security and the SAVE Act, which would require proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.