Scrutiny on Darline Graham’s Taiwan Comments Before Senate Runoff

Darline Graham recently admitted her lack of familiarity with Taiwan, which has sparked attention ahead of South Carolina’s GOP Senate runoff. This puts her national security credentials in the spotlight as she competes against Rep. Ralph Norman. Former President Donald Trump endorsed Graham and plans to support her at a rally in Myrtle Beach, leading up to Tuesday’s runoff.

Graham’s admission on Taiwan stands in stark contrast to her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham, known for emphasizing national security and foreign policy, particularly regarding Taiwan. This debate misstep goes beyond campaign implications. China claims Taiwan and has not dismissed using force, a potential conflict that could involve the U.S. militarily. Graham’s position on the Appropriations Committee influences military and national security spending.

Following her comments, Graham appeared on “Hannity” and clarified her stance on social media. She stated, “I tripped up on one question last night, regarding Taiwan. I don’t speak politician. I was just honest. Of course, Taiwan is our friend. But I think people in South Carolina are more worried about boys in girls’ sports.” She added, “I did say, several times, that China is our enemy, a military and economic threat to the United States. Of course, Taiwan is our friend.”

Graham emphasized her honesty, saying, “I’m not a politician. I don’t speak politician. I was just honest, and I think that’s a foreign concept in politics.” Despite this, her responses online were met with criticism, focusing on Lindsey Graham’s strong foreign policy record and consistent support for Taiwan.

Her critics include former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts. Haley wrote, “Lindsey Graham was well informed on the United States’ national security. Darline Graham admits she’s not. This is not something you inherit. And it’s critical in the U.S. Senate.” Roberts commented, “I’m sorry, but respectfully, even accounting for her being new to the job, this is embarrassing and inexcusable. China’s threat toward Taiwan is a bit of a big deal.”

Conservative radio host Clay Travis deemed Graham’s answer “disqualifying,” while former South Carolina state Rep. Adam Morgan noted Graham revealed a lack of ability to answer “basic national security questions.” Norman capitalized on the moment, asserting South Carolinians “can’t afford a grace period for on-the-job training while China buys up farmland near military installations and sends spy balloons over our state.” He emphasized the importance of supporting allies and understanding where Graham stands on these issues.

Mike Nelson, a visiting fellow at the National Security Institute, acknowledged no one expects Graham to immediately match her brother’s foreign policy expertise. However, he noted the importance of familiarity with significant global issues, considering Graham’s current role. Nelson remarked, “One would expect a cursory familiarity with some of the most concerning flashpoints, particularly as it relates to our largest strategic rival and threat, if one wants to keep their job in the body that votes on military force and authorizes defense budgets.”

Graham was appointed to fill her brother’s Senate seat after his death and aims to serve a full term. Her runoff against Norman will take place on Tuesday.