Palmetto State News

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today expressed his thoughts following U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell's announcement of stepping down as Senate Republican leader in November.

“Senator McConnell’s announcement that he will not seek Republican leadership in the next Congress is truly a ‘passing of the torch’ moment for the U.S. Senate," said Senator Graham. He continued, “Senator McConnell will be remembered as one of the most effective leaders in the history of the U.S. Senate."

Graham highlighted McConnell's impact on the judiciary, stating, “Through sheer force of will, he has shaped the federal judiciary in a conservative fashion." He also praised McConnell's stance on national security, saying, “No one in the Republican Party has echoed the themes of peace through strength – the Reagan model of national security – better than Senator Mitch McConnell."

The Senator commended McConnell's unwavering belief in addressing threats directly, noting, “He passionately believes in a strong America leading from the front and has been uncompromising in his view that we must deal with threats rather than wish them away."

Looking towards the future, Graham expressed his eagerness to collaborate with McConnell on various pressing issues, including border security and international matters. “I look forward to continuing to work with Senator McConnell in the coming days and months as we address major challenges like securing the southern border and helping our friends in Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan."

In conclusion, Graham affirmed his confidence in McConnell's leadership, stating, “There is much to be done, and I’m sure that Mitch will run through the finish line as Republican leader." He concluded by recognizing McConnell's legacy, saying, “History will record that Senator Mitch McConnell made a substantial and positive impact on the state he loves and the nation he adores."