Palmetto State News

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has released a statement following his meeting with Matt Gaetz, President Donald Trump's nominee for Attorney General, and Vice President-elect JD Vance. The meeting comes as the nomination process for Gaetz moves forward.

Graham expressed his commitment to ensuring that the nomination process is fair and consistent with past practices. "I am committed to allowing the process to go forward in a manner consistent with past practices and fundamental fairness," he stated. He emphasized that the process should not be rushed or influenced by external pressures, saying, "This process will not be a rubber stamp nor will it be driven by a lynch mob."

Reflecting on his own approach to cabinet nominations, Graham said, "My record is clear. I tend to defer to presidential cabinet choices unless the evidence suggests disqualification." He voiced concern about the current atmosphere surrounding Gaetz's nomination, fearing it might devolve into what he described as an "angry mob" where unverified allegations are prematurely accepted as truth.

Graham urged his Senate colleagues, especially Republicans, to remain impartial during this time. "I would urge all of my Senate colleagues, particularly Republicans, not to join the lynch mob and give the process a chance to move forward," he said. Highlighting Gaetz's history with investigations by the Department of Justice without charges being filed against him, Graham added, "This is something we should all remember."

Finally, Graham called for adherence to established procedures in handling nominations: "I would also urge my colleagues to go back to a time-tested process, receive relevant information, and give the nominee a chance to make their case as to why they should be confirmed." He believes this standard has historically benefited both the Senate and the nation.