Palmetto State News

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina has addressed the issue of the President's authority to nominate cabinet officials and Article III judges, emphasizing his past consistency in respecting this presidential prerogative.

Graham stated, "With respect to Presidents’ prerogative to nominate their cabinet and federal judges, the best indication of what I will do in the future is what I have done in the past. I have strived to be consistent over the arc of time and respected the fact that elections have consequences."

The senator highlighted the distinction between his role as a United States Senator and that of the President. He acknowledged that winning an election empowers the President to select their cabinet, make executive appointments, and nominate federal judges for lifetime positions. "When you look at my history regarding these matters, you will find that I honor this concept," Graham added.

He further elaborated on the confirmation process for nominees, stating that each must undergo rigorous scrutiny by answering challenging questions. Graham noted past instances where Democrats allegedly misused this process and assured he would address any similar situations in the future: "Every nominee will have to acquit themselves well during the confirmation process by answering difficult questions and having their actions scrutinized... If I believe this is happening again, I will speak out loudly."

Graham affirmed his general approach to voting for confirmations regardless of party affiliation or personal opinions as part of his constitutional duties as a senator. "Generally speaking, I vote for confirmation regardless of party or personal feelings because that is my Constitutional role as a Senator," he remarked.

Concluding his statement, Graham referenced President Trump's electoral victory: "The American people have spoken loudly, and President Trump won decisively. I consider this matter closed."