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GREENVILLE, S.C. —
As he seeks a fifth term in the U.S. Senate, Lindsey Graham says his decades of experience, close relationship with President Donald Trump, and ability to deliver federal resources to South Carolina set him apart from challengers calling for change.
In an interview with WYFF News 4, Graham reflected on his South Carolina roots and the accomplishments he is most proud of during his time in Washington.
“It’s been the highlight of my life,” Graham said.
Lindsey Graham grew up in Central, South Carolina, and became the first member of his family to graduate from college. He served in the South Carolina State House, U.S. House of Representatives, and was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2002.
Graham pointed to the deepening of the Port of Charleston as one of his signature achievements, saying the project helped secure jobs across the state, including in the Upstate.
“About one in nine jobs depend on the port of Charleston, which is now…one of the deepest ports on the East Coast,” Graham said.
Graham said expanding the port to accommodate larger cargo ships was critical for companies, including BMW, which manufactures and ships vehicles worldwide through Charleston. He argued the project strengthened South Carolina’s economy and protected thousands of jobs.
Graham said a major part of his role is working with local governments to secure federal funding for roads, water systems, sewer projects, and healthcare facilities.
“What I like about my job is working with state and local government. I was a city attorney, I was a county attorney. A lot of mandates come from Washington. I’m trying to be a team player. I try to go to state and local officials, say, how can I help you?” he said.
As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Graham said he regularly reviews requests from communities across South Carolina.
“I can’t fulfill everybody’s wishes, but I pick projects that leverage our state, and sometimes a million dollars in a small county is like a billion dollars, so I always try to make sure I don’t leave my small counties behind, who have a hard time growing,” Graham said.
He said he works to make sure smaller counties are not overlooked while also keeping pace with rapid growth in areas like Greenville.
When asked what he hears most often on the campaign trail, Graham said inflation and fuel prices continue to be top issues.
“I know exactly what you’re saying, and the only answer I know to give you is an honest one. They’ll come down when this war winds down, and we’re inside the 10-yard line. But President Trump had to do this in my view. Whatever cost we paid, and it’s been consequential. It’s better than allowing Iran to get nuclear weapons to destroy Israel, and one day come after us. The biggest change in the world for the worse would be if the regime in Iran had nuclear capability,” Graham said.
Graham predicted fuel prices would eventually decline as the conflict eases, while also emphasizing what he described as America’s energy independence.
Several candidates challenging Graham have argued that South Carolina needs new leadership in Washington. Graham countered that experience matters, saying voters should focus on who can effectively deliver results for the state.
“I think we need people that know what the hell they’re doing and can deliver, really. And that’s what it’s about, having somebody in Washington that can deliver for you and your family. If you think President Trump’s done a good job, I do too. He’s endorsed me, not my opponents, but me. If you want somebody to go to Washington that can help him, I’m your best choice. If you want somebody to go back to Washington who understands the world, the opportunities and dangers it presents to us as a state and nation, I’m your best choice. If you want somebody to go to Washington that can deliver on conservative judges, I’ll be chairman of the Judiciary Committee. I’ll wake up every morning, go to bed every night trying to find a way to get as many conservative judges on that court as I can. If you want somebody in Washington who understands the need for a strong military, you have no better choice than me. So it really is about delivering who is best able to deliver for our state, who is most capable person to help President Trump in his last two years. I think it’s me,” Graham said.
He argued South Carolina is a top state to live in because of its business-friendly environment.