Oct 23 2024

WASHINGTON – Following media reports that International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan is facing allegations of misconduct, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) is calling for the immediate release of records pertaining to these allegations. Senator Graham points out that the harassment allegations surfaced in early May, just a few days prior to Prosecutor Khan canceling his scheduled trip to meet with Israeli officials, and instead abruptly announcing he applied for arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant.

Graham wrote, “In the weeks before Prosecutor Khan applied for warrants, I worked with a bipartisan group of United States Senators to urge Prosecutor Khan to adhere to the Rome Statute in conducting his investigation. Specifically, on a May 1, 2024 phone call, this bipartisan group urged Prosecutor Khan to respect the principle of complementarity and to engage in good faith with Israeli officials before making any decision as to how to move forward against the State of Israel.”

He concluded,It has now come to my attention through media reports that Prosecutor Khan was facing allegations of misconduct around the same time, and the resolution of this matter remains a mystery. The abrupt decision to cancel this visit to Israel, along with these contemporaneous allegations needs to be explained, and I request full transparency on the matter to ensure there is no conflict of interest. These media reports are disturbing, and I call for a release of the records pertaining to these allegations, including any decision not to open an investigation, and for an update on where this matter stands. Until such transparency is satisfactorily achieved, another cloud—a moral one—hangs over Prosecutor Khan’s abrupt decision to abandon engagement with Israel and seek arrest warrants.”

To read the full letter, click here.

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Oct 21 2024

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today celebrated the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) receiving $195 million in federal funding for the Long Point Road Interchange Project.

According to SCDOT, the project will improve operations of the I-526/Long Point Road interchange and I-526 mainline and reduce operational conflicts between port-related and local traffic with new collector-distributor ramps off the mainline directly to the port, improvements to existing ramps, the addition of a 10-foot multiuse path, and construction of noise barriers.

“I am very pleased with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s decision to award South Carolina $195 million to complete the Long Point Road interchange project. This project is a game-changer for Charleston County and the Port, and it is critical to ensuring safe travel and continued growth in the region. I am proud to have worked with Governor McMaster, the SCDOT, Representative Nancy Mace, and Congressman Clyburn, a true champion of this project, to make it a reality. This is excellent news for our state,” said Senator Graham.

"The Long Point Road Interchange Project is an investment in both our economy and the quality of life of our people that will reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance access to the Port. Thanks to the support of our congressional delegation, South Carolina continues to secure transformative investments in our infrastructure, ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive for years to come,” said Governor Henry McMaster.

“SC Ports thanks the SC Department of Transportation and our Congressional delegation for working together to secure this grant for the Long Point Road Interchange Project, which will establish a direct connection between Interstate 526 and Wando Welch Terminal. The new port access road will support the more efficient movement of freight to and from one of the busiest container terminals on the U.S. East Coast, allowing cargo to move more safely and efficiently. Last-mile connectors such as this are critical to serving our customers and supporting our growth as the No. 8 U.S. container port. This new roadway will also separate cargo-carrying truck traffic from residential traffic, further benefiting surrounding communities. We greatly appreciate all the support from our partners on this crucial infrastructure project,” said South Carolina Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin.

“I am a proud member of Team South Carolina and there is no doubt in my mind that when we work together, we get big things done for the people we serve. South Carolina is now the fastest growing state in the nation and the Port is on track for further expansion that will bring huge rewards for our economy. SCDOT is working hard to make sure our road and bridge network is ready, now and for years to come,” said Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell.

“I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for providing $195 million in federal funding for the Long Point Road Interchange Project. This latest investment will allow for significant improvements along the interchange and support commerce from the Port, helping us to create a safer, more prosperous South Carolina. Our years of hard work have finally materialized,” said Congressman James E. Clyburn.

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Oct 07 2024

WASHINGTON – In order to best serve South Carolinians who were impacted by Hurricane Helene, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) is joining Governor Henry McMaster and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette in announcing a series of Team South Carolina Days. These will be one-stop-shops for South Carolinians who need access to federal, state and nonprofit resources as the state rebuilds after Hurricane Helene.

Oct 07 2024

WASHINGTON – On the one year anniversary of the brutal October 7 attack on Israel, U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and 47 of their colleagues are condemning Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, supporting Israel’s right to exist and calling for the safe release of American hostages.

The entire Senate Republican Conference stands united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war. They are also reiterating Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasizing the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated.

Click here to view the full resolution.

“The vicious and barbaric October 7 attack against innocent men, women and children by the terrorist organization, Hamas – backed by Iran – will be remembered forever by all decent human beings. The civilized world should be resolved in standing with and eradicating those who want to create a second Holocaust. This attack was not just a heinous crime against the Jewish people, it was a crime against civilization itself,” said Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina).

This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.”

“The United States stands with Israel, on this solemn anniversary and every day, as it defends itself against terrorist entities that seek to undermine peace and stability in the region. We must be unwavering in our support for our great friend and ally,” said Senate Republican Whip John Thune (R-South Dakota).

“The world watched in horror a year ago as Hamas slaughtered innocent men, women and children in Israel. Our nation must provide unwavering support to Israel’s mission to defend itself and defeat Hamas. We must unite and bring back peace through strength. Our resolution underscores how now more than ever, the American people need to stand with our ally Israel,” said Senate Republican Conference Chair John Barrasso (R-Wyoming).

“One year ago today, Israel was brutally and indiscriminately attacked by Hamas terrorists in an act of sheer evil that resulted in more than one thousand innocent people viciously murdered by terrorists. I am particularly sickened by Hamas’s use of sexual violence on this dark day, an inexcusable and disgusting war crime that must be universally condemned and never again used as a weapon of war. One year after these terrorist attacks and more recent attacks against the Israeli state, I unequivocally stand with the Jewish people, including our communities in West Virginia,” said Vice Chair of the Republican Conference Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia).

“The United States must stand with Israel. As we saw one year ago, Iran, the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism, helped Hamas fund and carry out the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Hamas murdered nearly 1,200 people, including Americans, and still holds many hostage. As we pause to remember the victims, the free world must stand in solidarity with Israel and support its fight against the evil Iranian regime,” said Senator Steve Daines (R-Montana).

“Today, people across the world are remembering those lives lost and the hostages who remain in captivity in Gaza. Unfortunately, a year later, Iran-backed groups continue to threaten the safety and security of the Israeli people. Hamas continues to hold innocent hostages in Gaza, while the Houthis in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon fire rockets and missiles towards Israel. The United States can and should continue to do all it can to support our ally Israel and hold Iran and its proxies accountable for their brutal attacks. This resolution is an important message to the people of Israel that we remain committed to defending them,” said Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jim Risch (R-Idaho).

“Hamas and its Iranian sponsors are intent on nothing less than the destruction of the Jewish state. On this anniversary, we remember the victims, demand freedom for the remaining hostages, and declare our strong and abiding support for our Israeli partners to ensure that these terrorist regimes are relegated to the dustbin of history,” said Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi).

“For the past 12 months, the Israeli military has taken necessary actions to preserve its homeland and neutralize the threat of horrific Iran-backed Hamas terrorism. In the face of ongoing Iranian aggression and rising antisemitism, the United States remains unwavering in our resolve to stand with Israel – our strongest ally in the Middle East,” said Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa).

“One year ago today, Hamas terrorists launched an unprovoked and deceitful series of terrorist acts inside Israel. The level of barbarism that we saw was nothing short of evil. These crimes against humanity were also visited upon American citizens as well. More than 40 were murdered by Hamas, and dozens were taken hostage. One year later, seven American citizens remain held by terrorists. We must continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the State of Israel. We must provide them with everything they need to secure the safety of their nation, eliminate the threat of terrorism, and apply maximum pressure on Hamas to release the remaining hostages,” said Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina).

“October 7 left an indelible mark on the Jewish State of Israel. In the last year, we have seen Hamas for the pure evil it is. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to stand with Israel, reinforce our efforts to bring all the remaining hostages, including American citizens, home, and pledge to always stand up to antisemitism,” said Dr. Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana). 

“On October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists murdered hundreds of Israeli people. This was truly Israel’s 9/11. As we reflect on the one-year anniversary of this terrible day, we reaffirm our support for Israel. America must continue to stand with our ally as they defend their nation,” said Senator Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota).

The United States continues to stand with our ally Israel a year after Hamas’ brutal attacks. We will never forget the tragedy that occurred on October 7th and the subsequent attacks from Iranian-backed terrorist groups and the rise of antisemitism that has followed. As we recognize this anniversary, we also reaffirm Israel’s right to self-defense,” said Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma).

One year after the grievous terrorist attack on Israel, there are still hostages, including Americans, being held captive by Hamas. The United States must continue to support Israel’s efforts to bring every hostage home and ensure its security against Hamas and all Iran-backed terrorist groups,” said Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kansas).

There’s no excusing, no equivocating, no explaining the actions of Hamas, who brutally raped, tortured, and beheaded innocent civilians and filmed it all for the world to see. Just as they did one year ago, Israel deserves America’s full and unwavering support, and I stand with the people of Israel in solidarity,” said Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas).

One year after Hamas' barbaric attack on Israel, we stand resolute in our unwavering support for the Jewish state and her right to defend herself. America must stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel – our great ally, friend, and partner – as she works to bring every single hostage home and permanently neutralize the threat of Hamas. Only through strength can we achieve peace — evil is powerless when the good are unafraid,” said Senator Katie Britt (R-Alabama).

One year ago, Hamas’ senseless and unprovoked attacks on Israel killed thousands of innocent Israeli civilians and the bloodshed since the war began has been devastating. Now more than ever, we must do everything in our power to hold Hamas accountable for its continued acts of terror and reaffirm our commitment to Israel as they continue to protect themselves against Hamas’ reign of terror,” said Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming).

On October 7th, the world witnessed a heinous terror attack as Hamas murdered innocent women, men and children. We must remain vigilant and unwavering in our commitment to bringing Hamas terrorists to justice. To the people of Israel, we stand with you, we mourn with you, and we will continue to support you until every hostage is brought home and Hamas surrenders,” said Senator Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska).

On the one year anniversary of the attacks on Israel, we remain committed to standing with Israel in its efforts to fully defeat Hamas and stand up to its terrorist adversaries throughout the region. Israel is our strongest partner in the Middle East and this resolution reaffirms our support for this important ally,” said Senator John Hoeven (R-North Dakota).

Israel is America’s closest ally in the Middle East and our partner for peace in the region. They have faced vicious attacks since their founding in 1948, but in the past year the attacks have reached a level never seen in the last half century of Israel. Terror attacks on the streets, rockets and missiles from all four directions and innocent hostages in Gaza have tested Israel’s strength. But, Israel still stands. The United States should stand with Israel in their battle for peace and existence, just as Israel has always stood with us in our battle against terrorism,” said Senator James Lankford (R-Oklahoma).

“Just as the sun began to rise one year ago, barbaric Hamas terrorists stormed into Israel and launched a widescale attack on thousands of innocent Israeli citizens. Hamas kidnapped, tortured and brutally murdered thousands of innocent people, plunging the Middle East into turmoil once again. I continue to press for the release of the remaining hostages and to stand unwaveringly with our strongest ally in the Middle East and its right to defend itself from ongoing threats from Iran and Iranian-backed terrorists,” said Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho).

“On this solemn anniversary, I stand firmly with Israel in condemning Hamas and their unspeakable acts of terror. We reaffirm our unwavering support for Israel’s right to defend itself, and we honor the resilience of her people. The United States must remain steadfast to stand with our ally in the fight against terrorism and the pursuit of lasting peace,” said Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi).

“Hamas’ brutal attack on innocent victims will never be forgotten. As families still wait to be reunited with loved ones captured one year ago, our resolve is unwavering to bring these hostages home. The United States stands with Israel, one of our closest friends and allies, as it continues to defend itself and its people. I remain committed to supporting our partner in its fight against Iran-backed terrorists,” said Senator John Boozman (R-Arkansas).

“On October 7, 2023, the world witnessed a truly barbaric and deadly terrorist attack against the Jewish State of Israel. Hamas and other Islamist militants made it clear that their ultimate goal is the complete destruction of Israel, our strongest ally in the Middle East. The U.S. has a moral duty to defend our national security interests and to stand with the people of Israel. We will not waiver,” said Senator Marco Rubio (R-Florida).

“It has been one year since Iran-backed Hamas terrorists attacked Israel, murdered families, raped innocent women, beheaded babies, and took so many hostage—including Americans who we have still not seen to this day. It is a day that so many will never forget, and not a day goes by that their loved ones wouldn’t do anything to see them again. We must stand with all of those impacted by the heinous attack, continue to stand with their families and support Israel in their fight. We cannot stop fighting until we bring them all home,” said Senator Rick Scott (R-Florida).

“As hard as it is to believe, it was one year ago today that Hamas launched an attack with the sole purpose of eradicating Israel, kidnapping and slaughtering thousands of Israeli citizens and dozens of Americans in the process. Despite the reckless language of the left, we stand in support of Israel, unequivocally, our friend and our close ally. The United States must do everything we can to champion the continued existence and flourishing of Israel, and deny Hamas the opportunity to rebuild itself,” said Senator Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota).

“Today, on October 7, it is important for us to pause and remember the barbaric attack that claimed the lives of more than 1,200 people in Israel one year ago today.  To this day, Hamas continues to hold innocent Israelis and Americans hostage, and the United States must unequivocally stand with our ally in its fight to rescue these individuals from captivity and defend itself against terrorism,” said Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee).

“One year ago today, the Iranian-backed terrorist group Hamas murdered 1,200 innocent individuals, abducted 240 hostages ranging from 10 months to 85 years old, and viciously raped and mutilated Israeli women. These despicable acts of violence, which resulted in the largest loss of Jewish life in a single day since the Holocaust, sadly continue with the brutal murder of six hostages just a few weeks ago and Iran’s recent missile attack. This resolution sends a strong message against all antisemitic acts and violence committed in support of such terrorist ideology. I urge my colleagues to join us as we stand with the Jewish community and with Israel, our closest ally in the Middle East,” said Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine).

“One year ago, the world witnessed Hamas commit an unprovoked barbaric attack against Israeli civilians. As we reflect on the anniversary of this horrific event, we must resolve to stand toe-to-toe against global aggressors and vow our unwavering support to defend Israel in their time of need. Showing that we are loyal to our allies and lethal to our adversaries is the only way to deter another tragedy like this from happening. The United States will always stand with Israel,” said Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina).

“One year ago, Hamas terrorists launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing innocent Israelis and American citizens and taking hostages in acts of horrific violence. We will never forget those lost in the evil attacks and continue to pray for the safe return of those still held captive by Hamas. We must stand united against the forces of terror that seek to undermine democracy and spread chaos in the region and beyond,” said Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kansas).

“Today marks the one year anniversary of the worst attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. As our resolution makes clear, we condemn Hamas for its brutal terrorist attack on Israel, reject the age-old sickness of antisemitism, and demand the safe release of remaining hostages from the Gaza Strip. The United States stands with Israel and supports its right to defend itself,” said Senator Todd Young (R-Indiana).

“The October 7th attack on Israel was a horrifying act of terror that claimed 1,200 innocent lives, including U.S. citizens. This resolution rightly condemns those atrocities and the ongoing torture and killing of hostages. Israel has a right to exist and the United States will continue to stand firmly behind them in their fight against evil,” said Dr. Rand Paul (R-Kentucky).

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Oct 04 2024

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) made this statement after the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) committed to coming to Aiken County and the Savannah River area in South Carolina today.

Yesterday, Graham spoke with a FEMA representative and urged the agency to make contact with local officials and come to the area immediately because of the level of devastation. FEMA is touring Aiken County this afternoon with Aiken County Council Chairman Gary Bunker and Silver Bluff Fire Chief Kerry Green.

“Aiken County is appreciative of the support provided by Sen. Lindsey Graham and his staff. Within hours after his commitment to provide FEMA support, we had a point of contact lined up from the agency. I and Silver Bluff Fire Chief Kerry Green will be taking a FEMA representative on a tour of the impacted communities later this afternoon,” said Council Chairman Bunker. “The critical issues in Aiken County are the clearing of the roads and the pickup of storm debris and the rebuilding of the power network. A power grid built up over decades was smashed in four hours during the storm last Friday morning.”

“I really appreciate FEMA’s prompt response to my request. I am also grateful for the leadership of Council Chairman Bunker and the entire Team Aiken,” said Graham. “Aiken County has been hard hit and North Augusta has been particularly devastated, but the people living there are pushing through and rising to the occasion. The entire Savannah River region was severely impacted both sides of the river and I expect a surge of resources to the region very soon.”

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Oct 04 2024

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) met with Edgefield Mayor Ken Durham, South Carolina State Representative Bill Hixon (District 83), South Carolina National Guard General Van McCarty, Edgefield County Sheriff Jody Rowland and other local officials in Edgefield yesterday.

Graham heard about the South Carolina National Guard and South Carolina State Guard’s work to immediately respond to Hurricane Helene all across South Carolina. Graham also received an update on the county’s recovery progress.

CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS

  • MAYOR DURHAM: “The storm hit. Within hours, the Guard was at our fire station and they actually had to cut themselves out of where they were to come aid us. Every street in town was blocked by one too many trees. Nothing was passable. And as of today [October 3], every street is passable two ways in Edgefield, thanks to the Guard.” https://youtu.be/t2fLUnnx6ls?si=bpEOKqYCWe6t_AYO&t=128
  • GRAHAM: “…there’s too many to name, but when it comes time to talking about MVPs, people you couldn’t do without [during recovery] from this disaster of biblical portions, it has been the South Carolina National Guard and it has been the State Guard … General McCarty is the right man at the right time.” https://youtu.be/t2fLUnnx6ls?si=P6bUJfoou-GBy4t2&t=4 
  • GRAHAM: “To all of you, your soldiers and your airmen who have been hit just as hard as everybody else. Everybody who was out cutting those trees up, they were hurt too. So I just want to thank you on behalf of all of us in South Carolina.” https://youtu.be/t2fLUnnx6ls?si=unwgbBav_zscol0t&t=46

Click Here To Watch Video of Graham’s Discussion with Edgefield Officials

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Oct 03 2024

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) attended a briefing in Aiken with state and local officials at the Aiken County Emergency Management Center. Following the briefing, he spoke with a representative from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and a Dominion Energy representative for South Carolina.

Oct 02 2024

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today called on President Joe Biden to end labor strikes at ports across the country.

  • GRAHAM: “I can’t emphasize [this enough:] The strike needs to end sooner rather than later. I cannot tell you how seriously this will jeopardize our recovery [from Hurricane Helene] in South Carolina and North Carolina. This is going to jeopardize public health. It’s going to jeopardize public safety…” https://youtu.be/cxWloIOBr6c?si=0zxrQaybOsNWlAMf&t=11
  • GRAHAM: “[The Port of Charleston] is an essential outlet to the world for South Carolina… So President Biden… I am urging you, I am telling you, I am begging you [to] end this strike sooner rather than later because you’re adding misery to pain.” https://youtu.be/cxWloIOBr6c?si=Ew6wmaKgu8nUqom9&t=64

Click here to watch Graham’s remarks 

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Oct 02 2024

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today met with leadership and employees at Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative in Pickens, South Carolina.

Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative is a customer-owned electric utility company that has been operating in South Carolina since 1940. Graham is a customer of Blue Ridge.

CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS

Graham gave an update with Blue Ridge President and CEO Jim Lovinggood during his visit.

  • LOVINGGOOD: “This storm was historic in every way you choose to measure it. We had about 90 percent of our customers out of power Friday morning at 10:00 AM… So far we’ve been able to get about 70 percent of those back on. So we’re down now to about 30 percent of our customers without power.” https://youtu.be/vTY7g3AqZwQ?si=MaDIT-YOP2UWp52C&t=69
  • GRAHAM: “This is Hurricane Hugo for the Upstate, if you’re old enough to remember that…We got flattened up here, folks. I wanted to come by and thank the co-ops and all the line crew out there and the people working out in the field. You know it’s a team sport here.” https://youtu.be/vTY7g3AqZwQ?si=5LSZOZI3CNz8NLEa&t=167
  • LOVINGGOOD: “We are working around the clock. We’ve set up in both of our campuses to house up to 700 outside workers. We have over 500 currently in the field and we’re hoping to get more help as the days go by.” https://youtu.be/vTY7g3AqZwQ?si=YdQY-t_gt1KbejXG&t=116
  • GRAHAM: “Just be patient. The people who are trying to restore your power lost their power. They haven’t seen their families, they are out there working 16 to 18-hour days working under very dangerous conditions. So to the extent you can be patient, please do. I know it’s frustrating, but the people trying to help you have suffered like you have.” https://youtu.be/vTY7g3AqZwQ?si=f_7q90Lk6sX3VLer&t=193

Click here to watch the entire video