History of Lindsey Graham in Timeline
Lindsey Olin Graham, an American lawyer and politician, has served as the senior United States Senator from South Carolina since 2003. A Republican, he chaired the Senate Committee on the Judiciary from 2019 to 2021. Before entering the Senate, Graham served in the United States Air Force from 1982 to 1988 and the South Carolina Air National Guard from 1989 to 1995. He then served in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing South Carolina's 3rd congressional district from 1995 to 2003. He is known for his often shifting political stances and has been both a critic and a supporter of various presidential administrations.
July 9, 1955: Birth of Lindsey Graham
Lindsey Olin Graham was born on July 9, 1955.
1977: Graduates with BA in Psychology
Lindsey Graham graduated from the University of South Carolina with a BA in psychology in 1977.
1981: Graduation from Law School
Lindsey Graham earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1981.
1981: Graduates from Law School
Lindsey Graham graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Law with a J.D. in 1981.
1982: Begins Active Duty in the Air Force
Lindsey Graham began his active duty in the U.S. Air Force in 1982, serving in the Judge Advocate General's Corps.
1982: Commissioned into JAG Corps
Lindsey Graham was commissioned as an officer in the Judge Advocate General's Corps (JAG Corps) in 1982.
1984: Featured on 60 Minutes
In 1984, Lindsey Graham was featured on an episode of 60 Minutes regarding the Air Force's drug-testing procedures. He served as chief prosecutor in Europe from 1984-1988
1988: Concludes Main Period of Active Duty
In 1988, Lindsey Graham finished his primary period of active duty in the Judge Advocate General's Corps, having served as a defense attorney and then chief prosecutor in Europe.
1988: Becomes Assistant County Attorney
Lindsey Graham became the assistant county attorney for Oconee County in 1988.
1989: Joins South Carolina Air National Guard
Lindsey Graham joined the South Carolina Air National Guard in 1989.
1989: Leaves Active Duty, Enters Private Practice
Lindsey Graham left active duty in the Air Force and entered private practice as a lawyer in 1989.
1990: Becomes City Attorney for Central
In 1990, Lindsey Graham became the city attorney for Central, South Carolina.
1990: Serves During Gulf War
Lindsey Graham served on active duty during the 1990-1991 Gulf War, briefing pilots on the laws of war.
1991: Gulf War Service Ends
Lindsey Graham's active duty during the Gulf War concluded in 1991.
1992: Ends Term as Assistant County Attorney
Lindsey Graham finished serving as the assistant county attorney for Oconee County in 1992.
1992: Elected to South Carolina House of Representatives
Lindsey Graham was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1992.
1993: Begins Term in SC House
Lindsey Graham began his term in the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1993.
1993: Begins Service in South Carolina House of Representatives
Lindsey Graham's term in the South Carolina House of Representatives began in 1993.
1994: Wins Republican Primary for U.S. House
In 1994, Lindsey Graham won the Republican primary for South Carolina's 3rd congressional district.
1994: Write-in Votes Received
In 1994, write-in candidates received 13 votes.
1994: Ends Term as City Attorney for Central
Lindsey Graham concluded his service as city attorney for Central in 1994.
1995: Begins Service in U.S. House of Representatives
Lindsey Graham began serving in the U.S. House of Representatives for South Carolina's 3rd congressional district in 1995.
1995: Ends Term in SC House
Lindsey Graham completed his term in the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1995.
1995: Joins U.S. Air Force Reserve
Lindsey Graham joined the U.S. Air Force Reserve in 1995.
1996: Vote for Defense of Marriage Act
In 1996, Graham voted for the Defense of Marriage Act.
1996: Re-elected to U.S. House
Lindsey Graham was re-elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1996.
November 1997: Cosponsoring Impeachment Resolution Against President Bill Clinton
In November 1997, prior to the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal, Lindsey Graham joined 17 other House Republicans in cosponsoring a resolution by Bob Barr to initiate an impeachment inquiry against President Bill Clinton. The resolution didn't specify charges.
1997: Challenges Newt Gingrich's Leadership
In 1997, Lindsey Graham participated in a leadership challenge against House Speaker Newt Gingrich.
October 8, 1998: Vote on Impeachment Inquiry Against President Bill Clinton
On October 8, 1998, Lindsey Graham voted in favor of opening an impeachment inquiry against President Bill Clinton. As a member of the Judiciary Committee, he participated in the inquiry and ultimately voted for three of the four proposed articles of impeachment, dissenting on the perjury count related to the Paula Jones case. He also served as a House impeachment manager during the Senate trial.
1998: Controversy over Military Service Claims
In 1998, a controversy arose concerning Lindsey Graham's representation of his military service.
1998: Impeachment of Bill Clinton
In 1998, during the impeachment of Bill Clinton, Graham made statements that contradicted his later stance on Trump's impeachment.
1998: Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel
Lindsey Graham was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 1998.
1998: Re-elected to U.S. House (Unopposed)
Lindsey Graham was re-elected to the U.S. House of Representatives unopposed in 1998.
2000: Supports John McCain's Presidential Campaign
In 2000, Lindsey Graham supported John McCain's presidential bid.
2000: Minor Candidates and Write-ins
In the 2000 election, Natural Law candidate LeRoy J. Klein received 1,122 votes, write-in candidates received 33 votes, and George Brightharp received 2,253 votes running under both Democratic and United Citizens parties.
2000: Re-elected to U.S. House
Lindsey Graham was re-elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2000.
2002: Vote for the Iraq Resolution
In 2002, Lindsey Graham voted in favor of the Iraq Resolution, authorizing military action against Iraq.
2002: Election to the U.S. Senate
In 2002, following Strom Thurmond's retirement, Lindsey Graham ran for and won the U.S. Senate seat for South Carolina. He defeated Democrat Alex Sanders, becoming the state's first new senator since 1966.
2002: Wins U.S. Senate Seat
Lindsey Graham won the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Strom Thurmond in 2002.
2003: Military Lawyers Concerns
The released memos revealed concerns by military lawyers as early as 2003 regarding Guantanamo interrogation practices.
2003: Left U.S. House of Representatives
In 2003, Lindsey Graham ended his service in the U.S. House of Representatives.
2003: Elected to the U.S. Senate
In 2003, Lindsey Graham became the senior United States senator from South Carolina.
June 2004: Supreme Court Decision on Detainees
A June 2004 Supreme Court decision allowed detainees to file habeas corpus petitions.
2004: Promoted to Colonel
Lindsey Graham was promoted to Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve in 2004.
May 23, 2005: Gang of 14 Compromise
On May 23, 2005, Graham was part of the "Gang of 14" that brokered a compromise on judicial nominee confirmations, averting the "nuclear option".
July 2005: Guantanamo Interrogation Memos
In July 2005, Graham secured the release of memos about the legality of Guantanamo Bay interrogations.
November 2005: Detainee Rights Amendment
In November 2005, Graham authored an amendment to limit the rights of detainees, responding to a Supreme Court decision.
2005: Detainee Treatment Act
The amicus brief referred to the Detainee Treatment Act of 2005.
February 2006: Hamdan v. Rumsfeld Amicus Brief
In February 2006, Graham joined an amicus brief in the Hamdan v. Rumsfeld case arguing that Congress intended to strip the Supreme Court of jurisdiction over Guantanamo detainee cases.
2006: McCain-Kennedy Immigration Reform Bill
Graham supported the McCain-Kennedy Immigration Reform Bill in 2006.
2006: Support for Constitutional Amendment Against Same-Sex Marriage
In 2006, Graham voted to support a constitutional amendment against same-sex marriage. He believed a constitutional amendment was necessary to counter the growing trend of judges establishing a constitutional right to same-sex marriage. Following the Supreme Court's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, he conceded that a constitutional amendment was no longer a viable option on the matter.
2006: Court Ruling on Military Service
In 2006, the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces ruled against Graham's service as a military judge while a Senator.
2007: Serves in Iraq
Lindsey Graham served in Iraq as a reservist on active duty in 2007.
2007: Advocacy for Surge Strategy in Iraq
In 2007, Graham, along with Senators McCain and Lieberman, reached the peak of their influence as they advocated for President Bush's surge strategy in Iraq.
2007: Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act
Graham also supported the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2007.
2008: Primary Challenge
Graham faced a primary challenge in 2008 due to his stance on immigration.
2008: Co-chairs John McCain's Presidential Campaign
In 2008, Lindsey Graham served as the national co-chair for John McCain's presidential campaign.
2008: Russia's Invasion of Georgia
In 2008, Russia invaded Georgia.
2008: Re-election to the U.S. Senate
Lindsey Graham secured a second term in the U.S. Senate in 2008. He first won the Republican primary against Buddy Witherspoon and then defeated Democratic nominee Bob Conley in the general election.
May 2009: Internment as Detention Model
In May 2009, Graham cited the internment of German and Japanese prisoners during World War II as a model for domestic detention of Guantanamo detainees.
August 2009: Begins as Senior Legal Advisor
Lindsey Graham began his role as senior legal advisor to the Air Force in Iraq and Afghanistan in August 2009.
August 2009: Serves in Afghanistan
Lindsey Graham served in Afghanistan in August 2009.
December 10, 2009: Co-sponsorship of Climate Change Bill Commitment Letter
On December 10, 2009, Graham, along with Senators John Kerry and Joe Lieberman, co-sponsored a letter to President Obama expressing their commitment to passing climate change legislation. Though initially a potential supporter, Graham later withdrew his support, citing disapproval of Senate Democrats prioritizing immigration legislation.
December 2009: Vote Against Affordable Care Act
Lindsey Graham voted against the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) in December 2009.
June 2010: Withdrawal of Support for Climate Bill
In June 2010, Graham stated his intention to vote against the climate bill he had co-sponsored, citing concerns about changes related to offshore drilling. He also expressed skepticism about climate science.
July 2010: Birthright Citizenship Amendment
In July 2010, Graham suggested amending the 14th Amendment to deny birthright citizenship to children of illegal immigrants.
November 6, 2010: Call for Preemptive Military Strike on Iran
On November 6, 2010, Graham advocated for a preemptive military strike against Iran.
December 2010: Vote Against New START Treaty
In December 2010, Graham voted against ratifying the New START treaty, a nuclear arms reduction agreement between the U.S. and Russia.
2010: Campaign Contributions from Thornton Law Firm Begin
In 2010, Lindsey Graham began receiving campaign contributions from partners at the Thornton Law Firm. This marked the start of a period where he would receive a total of $62,800 over the next several years. These contributions would later come under scrutiny.
2010: Immigration Reform Talks
Graham worked with Chuck Schumer on immigration reform in 2010, but talks stalled.
2010: Vote Against Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act
In 2010, Graham voted against the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act.
April 3, 2011: Limits on Free Speech
On April 3, 2011, Graham suggested exploring limitations on free speech, citing a Koran-burning incident and wartime restrictions.
August 2011: Co-Sponsorship of Resolution Condemning Russia's Invasion of Georgia
In August 2011, Graham co-sponsored a resolution condemning Russia's 2008 invasion of Georgia.
2011: Support for Continued U.S. Military Presence in Iraq
In 2011, Graham expressed support for a continued U.S. military presence in Iraq.
2011: Support for Continued Military Presence in Iraq and Joining of Senator Kelly Ayotte
Senator Kelly Ayotte joined the Senate, effectively considered the replacement for Senator Lieberman in Graham, McCain, and Lieberman's group. In 2011, Graham also voiced support for maintaining a U.S. military presence in Iraq.
April 2012: Endorses Mitt Romney for President
In April 2012, after Rick Santorum withdrew from the race, Lindsey Graham endorsed Mitt Romney for president, who became the presumptive Republican nominee.
June 2012: Graham Supports Closing Tax Loopholes
Despite signing the Taxpayer Protection Pledge, Lindsey Graham expressed support for closing tax loopholes in June 2012.
November 2012: Immigration Reform Talks Renewed
In November 2012, Graham and Schumer restarted discussions about comprehensive immigration reform.
2012: Benghazi Attack
The 2012 Benghazi attack occurred, prompting subsequent investigations.
2012: Warning about Iraq's Potential Collapse
Graham warned that Iraq could descend into chaos in 2012 without a continued American military presence.
January 28, 2013: Bipartisan Immigration Reform Principles
On January 28, 2013, Graham was part of a bipartisan group that announced principles for comprehensive immigration reform.
January 29, 2013: Criticism of Hillary Clinton and Benghazi Report
On January 29, 2013, Graham criticized Hillary Clinton's handling of the 2012 Benghazi attack, accusing her of "getting away with murder".
February 2013: Improved Approval Rating and Primary Win
By February 2013, Lindsey Graham's approval rating had risen to 59% among likely Republican voters. He went on to win the June 10th Republican primary with 56.42% of the vote, overcoming the expected challenge.
February 28, 2013: Criticism of Budget Reductions
On February 28, 2013, Graham publicly criticized President Obama and both political parties for allowing budget cuts that he argued would negatively impact the Department of Defense.
March 2013: Introduction of Bill to Address Gun Law Loophole
In March 2013, Lindsey Graham collaborated with Senators Jeff Flake, Mark Begich, and Mark Pryor to introduce a bill designed to close a loophole in gun laws. The bill aimed to flag individuals attempting to purchase firearms who had used an insanity defense, were deemed dangerous by a court, or had been court-ordered into mental health treatment. However, it didn't address the gun show loophole.
June 23, 2013: Senate Support for Reform
On June 23, 2013, Graham believed the Senate was nearing 70 votes to pass the immigration reform package.
July 16, 2013: Suggestion to Boycott 2014 Sochi Olympics
On July 16, 2013, Graham suggested a boycott of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi due to Russia's global actions.
July 25, 2013: Sanctions for Snowden Asylum
On July 25, 2013, Graham proposed sanctions against countries offering asylum to Edward Snowden.
2013: Senate Rule Change
Graham highlighted that in 2013, Democrats changed Senate rules to allow a simple majority vote for nominees to U.S. courts of appeals.
2013: Decline of "Three Amigos" Influence
The influence of the "three amigos" (Graham, McCain, and Lieberman) waned in 2013, shortly before Lieberman retired from the Senate.
2013: NSA Surveillance Support
In 2013, Graham expressed support for the NSA's collection of phone records.
July 2014: Ends Term as Senior Legal Advisor
Lindsey Graham finished his service as senior legal advisor in July 2014.
October 2014: Hints at Presidential Run
In October 2014, during his Senate reelection campaign, Lindsey Graham hinted at a potential presidential run, suggesting he might enter the race if no other candidate addressed his concerns on immigration and foreign policy.
2014: Thornton Law Firm Contributions Peak
By 2014, the total campaign contributions received by Lindsey Graham from partners at the Thornton Law Firm reached $62,800. This marked the end of a four year period during which Graham's campaign received funding from the firm. The contributions would later face scrutiny due to the firm's practice of reimbursing partners.
2014: Fiscal Year 2014 Appropriations Bill
Graham's amendment regarding sanctions for Snowden asylum was part of the Fiscal Year 2014 Department of State appropriations bill.
2014: Vulnerability to Primary Challenge
In 2014, due to low approval ratings and his bipartisan approach, Lindsey Graham was considered vulnerable to a primary challenge from conservative activists and groups like the Tea Party and Club for Growth.
2014: Awarded Bronze Star Medal
Lindsey Graham was awarded a Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service in 2014.
2014: Sochi Winter Olympics
The 2014 Winter Olympics were held in Sochi, Russia.
March 7, 2015: Advocates for Defense Spending and Presidential Power
On March 7, 2015, during a "Politics and Pies" forum, Lindsey Graham publicly advocated for reversing defense spending cuts. He also stated that if he were president, he would prevent Congress from adjourning until the issue was resolved, even suggesting the use of military intervention if necessary.
March 2015: Graham Supports Saudi Intervention in Yemen
In March 2015, Lindsey Graham expressed support for the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen, citing Saudi Arabia as a strategic partner against Iran.
April 19, 2015: Expresses Strong Interest in Presidential Run
On April 19, 2015, Lindsey Graham stated he was "91% sure" he would run for president, contingent on fundraising success.
May 18, 2015: Informally Announces Presidential Candidacy
On May 18, 2015, Lindsey Graham informally announced his presidential candidacy on CBS This Morning, citing his concern over global instability.
June 1, 2015: Officially Announces Presidential Candidacy
Lindsey Graham officially announced his candidacy for president on June 1, 2015.
June 17, 2015: Graham Responds to Charleston Church Shooting
Following the Charleston church shooting on June 17, 2015, Lindsey Graham addressed calls to remove the Confederate flag, suggesting it was time to revisit the decision while acknowledging its historical context.
July 2015: Clash with Donald Trump over John McCain
During the 2015 presidential campaign, a public feud erupted between Lindsey Graham and Donald Trump. After Trump disparaged John McCain's war record, Graham called Trump a "jackass." Trump retaliated by calling Graham an "idiot" and publicly sharing his phone number.
December 2015: Condemnation of Trump's Proposed Muslim Ban
In December 2015, Lindsey Graham strongly condemned Donald Trump's call for a ban on Muslims entering the U.S., labeling Trump a "race-baiting, xenophobic, religious bigot" and stating he'd rather lose the election without Trump than win with him.
December 2015: Ends Presidential Campaign
In December 2015, Lindsey Graham ended his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination.
December 21, 2015: Suspends Presidential Campaign
On December 21, 2015, Lindsey Graham suspended his presidential campaign due to low polling numbers and lack of support.
2015: Sponsorship of Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act
In 2015, Graham sponsored the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, a bill aiming to establish a national ban on abortions after 20 weeks of gestation, with exceptions for cases endangering the mother's life, rape, or incest.
2015: Retires from the Air Force
Lindsey Graham retired from the Air Force with the rank of Colonel in 2015.
2015: Acknowledgement of Climate Change Reality
By 2015, while acknowledging the reality of climate change, Graham expressed uncertainty about the extent of human impact.
January 15, 2016: Endorses Jeb Bush
On January 15, 2016, Lindsey Graham endorsed Jeb Bush for president.
February 2016: Criticism of Trump
In February 2016, Lindsey Graham referred to Donald Trump as a "kook," "crazy," and "unfit for office."
May 2016: Refuses to Support Trump or Clinton
In May 2016, as Donald Trump emerged as the likely Republican nominee, Lindsey Graham publicly announced his refusal to vote for either Trump or Hillary Clinton.
May 2016: Prediction of Republican Defeat with Trump
In May 2016, Lindsey Graham publicly tweeted that if the Republican party nominated Trump, they would be "destroyed...and we will deserve it."
June 2016: Criticism of Trump's Remarks on Judge's Heritage
In June 2016, after Donald Trump's controversial remarks about a judge of Mexican heritage, Graham criticized Trump for "playing the race card," though stopping short of calling him racist. He suggested Republicans reconsider the party's future if such rhetoric continued and predicted a time when "love of country will trump hatred of Hillary."
November 8, 2016: Votes for Evan McMullin
On November 8, 2016, Lindsey Graham announced he voted for Evan McMullin, refusing to support either Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton.
2016: Criticizes Trump's Candidacy
During 2016, Lindsey Graham openly criticized Donald Trump's presidential candidacy.
2016: Campaign Finance Scrutiny
In 2016, Lindsey Graham faced scrutiny over campaign donations received from the Thornton Law Firm, a firm known for asbestos litigation. The Boston Globe reported Graham as the sole Republican recipient of funds from a major Democratic donor under investigation for questionable campaign donation practices. He received $62,800 over ten years, with reimbursements made to partners shortly after contributions, raising concerns about legality.
2016: Boycotts Merrick Garland Nomination
In 2016, Graham participated in the Republican boycott of Merrick Garland's Supreme Court nomination by President Obama.
2016: Pledge Reversal
Graham's 2020 actions were seen as contradicting a pledge made in 2016.
2016: Russian Interference in the 2016 Election
The Steele Dossier and the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election became prominent.
2016: Liberation of Manbij from ISIS
In 2016, the Manbij Military Council, with support from the US-led coalition, led an offensive to liberate the city of Manbij from ISIS control.
2016: Sister Introduces Graham at Presidential Candidacy Announcement
In 2016, Lindsey Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone, introduced him at his presidential campaign announcement. She spoke of their upbringing after their parents' deaths and how Graham became a father and mother figure to her, shaping his character and demonstrating a softer side often unseen by the public.
January 5, 2017: Condemnation of Obama's Abstention from UN Resolution 2334
On January 5, 2017, Graham condemned President Obama for abstaining from UN Security Council Resolution 2334, which criticized Israeli settlements.
March 2017: Becomes a Trump Ally
Following a meeting with Donald Trump in March 2017, Lindsey Graham became a staunch supporter.
March 2017: Meeting with Trump and Shift in Relationship
In March 2017, Lindsey Graham met with Donald Trump, describing it as so positive that he gave Trump his new phone number.
March 2017: Vote for Broadband Consumer Privacy Proposal
Lindsey Graham voted in favor of the Broadband Consumer Privacy Proposal in March 2017. This proposal revoked the FCC's internet privacy regulations, enabling internet service providers to sell users' browsing history without their consent.
October 2017: Graham's Response to Tongo Tongo Ambush
Following the Tongo Tongo ambush in October 2017, Lindsey Graham expressed surprise at the presence of U.S. troops in Niger and later called for an increased military presence in Africa.
October 2017: Golf Outings and Public Praise for Trump
By October 2017, Graham and Trump were seen golfing together multiple times, with Graham publicly praising the outings.
November 2017: Defense of Trump Against Media Criticism
In November 2017, Graham defended Trump against media criticism, expressing concern over attempts to label Trump a "kook." This contrasted with his prior (February 2016) statement calling Trump "crazy" and "unfit for office."
2017: Authorship of Graham-Cassidy Amendment
During 2017, Graham played a significant role in attempts to repeal Obamacare, notably by authoring the Graham-Cassidy amendment. This amendment sought to grant states the authority to eliminate protections for individuals with pre-existing conditions, potentially enabling insurers to impose higher premiums on them.
January 2018: Graham Recommends Charges Against Christopher Steele
In January 2018, Lindsey Graham and Chuck Grassley recommended charges against Christopher Steele, author of the Steele dossier, for allegedly lying to federal authorities.
April 2018: Support for Trump's Re-election
In April 2018, Lindsey Graham announced his support for Donald Trump's 2020 re-election bid.
April 2018: Graham Introduces Legislation to Protect Mueller
In April 2018, following the FBI raid on Michael Cohen's offices, Lindsey Graham co-sponsored legislation to limit President Trump's ability to fire Special Counsel Robert Mueller.
May 2018: Vote Against Net Neutrality
In May 2018, Lindsey Graham voted against legislation that aimed to overturn the FCC's ruling and restore net neutrality.
July 2018: Graham Visits Manbij in Syria
In July 2018, Lindsey Graham and Senator Jeanne Shaheen visited Manbij, Syria, meeting with the Manbij Military Council.
August 2018: Claims Trump Has Never Made Racist Statements
In August 2018, Graham stated that he had never heard Trump make any racist statements.
October 2018: States Supreme Court Vacancies Shouldn't Be Filled in Election Year
In October 2018, Graham stated that Supreme Court vacancies should not be filled during a presidential election year.
November 2018: Appointment as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee
In November 2018, Chuck Grassley announced his transition to chair of the Senate Finance Committee, paving the way for Lindsey Graham to become chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
2018: Anti-abortion Stance with Recognition of Roe v. Wade Precedent
Graham maintained an anti-abortion position in 2018 while acknowledging Roe v. Wade as a precedent that shouldn't be overturned without compelling justification.
2018: Kavanaugh Confirmation Hearings
In 2018, during Brett Kavanaugh's Supreme Court confirmation hearings, Lindsey Graham strongly opposed delaying the process due to Christine Blasey Ford's sexual assault allegations against Kavanaugh.
January 2019: Call for Republican Support of Trump's Policies
By January 2019, Graham stated that Republican support for Trump's policies was crucial for the president's and the party's success.
January 2019: Becomes Chairman of Senate Judiciary Committee
Lindsey Graham assumed the chairmanship of the Senate Judiciary Committee in January 2019.
February 2019: Explanation for Support of Trump
In February 2019, Graham explained his support for Trump as a move to be "relevant" and influential, aiming to be part of Trump's inner circle. He described his relationship with Trump as a pragmatic one, citing increased presidential contact, opportunities to achieve policy outcomes, and potential benefits for his own 2020 re-election.
March 11, 2019: Encouragement of Golan Heights Recognition
On March 11, 2019, Graham encouraged the Trump administration to recognize the Golan Heights as Israeli territory.
March 14, 2019: Graham Blocks Release of Mueller Report
On March 14, 2019, Lindsey Graham blocked a resolution calling for the public release of the Mueller report.
May 14, 2019: Encouraging Trump Jr. to Ignore Subpoena
On May 14, 2019, Lindsey Graham drew scrutiny, including from Senator Joe Manchin, for encouraging Donald Trump Jr. to ignore a subpoena from the Senate Intelligence Committee.
May 2019: Graham Calls for Military Intervention in Venezuela
In May 2019, Lindsey Graham advocated for a military invasion of Venezuela to oust President Nicolás Maduro during the presidential crisis.
May 2019: New Immigration Law Proposal
In May 2019, Graham proposed new immigration laws that would restrict asylum applications, expedite deportations of unaccompanied children and extend the permissible time limit for which unaccompanied migrant children could be detained.
June 2019: Graham Votes Against Trump's Saudi Arms Deal
In June 2019, Lindsey Graham was among a small group of Republicans who voted to block President Trump's arms deal with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Jordan.
June 25, 2019: Graham Defends Trump's Cooperation with Mueller
On June 25, 2019, Lindsey Graham stated that President Trump fully cooperated with the Mueller investigation.
July 2019: Defends Trump Against Racism Accusations
In July 2019, Lindsey Graham defended President Trump against accusations of racism, arguing that Trump's comments about certain Democratic congresswomen were not racist.
July 2019: Visit to Migrant Detention Center
In July 2019, Graham visited a Texas migrant detention center, deeming it "overwhelmed" but not a "concentration camp".
July 24, 2019: Graham Questions Mueller Report's Authenticity
After Mueller's testimony on July 24, 2019, Lindsey Graham questioned the report's authenticity.
October 8, 2019: Condemns Trump's Syria Withdrawal
On October 8, 2019, Graham publicly condemned Trump's decision to withdraw troops from northern Syria, expressing concerns about national security risks.
October 2019: Graham Threatens Sanctions Against Turkey
In October 2019, Lindsey Graham threatened sanctions against Turkey if they invaded Syria and called for their suspension from NATO if they attacked Kurdish forces.
November 2019: Graham Blocks Armenian Genocide Recognition
In November 2019, Lindsey Graham blocked a Senate resolution recognizing the Armenian genocide.
December 2019: Vows to End Impeachment Quickly
In December 2019, Graham declared his intention to swiftly end the impeachment proceedings against President Trump in the Senate, stating he had already made up his mind.
December 2019: Graham Votes for Armenian Genocide Recognition
In December 2019, Lindsey Graham voted in favor of the Senate resolution recognizing the Armenian genocide, which passed unanimously.
2019: Chairmanship of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary
Lindsey Graham chaired the Senate Committee on the Judiciary from 2019 to 2021.
2019: Judiciary Committee Chair
Lindsey Graham became chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2019.
May 2020: Supreme Court Vacancy
In May 2020, Graham stated that the Senate would confirm a Supreme Court nominee if a vacancy arose before the November election, differentiating it from the Merrick Garland situation.
August 2020: Post-Kavanaugh Confirmation Rules
In August 2020, Graham remarked that the rules for Supreme Court confirmations had changed following Kavanaugh's confirmation.
September 2020: Ginsburg's Death and Nomination
Following Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death in September 2020, Graham supported an immediate vote on Trump's nominee, reversing his previous stance.
October 2020: Leads Amy Coney Barrett's Confirmation Hearings
Lindsey Graham presided over the Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Amy Coney Barrett in October 2020.
2020: Re-elected to Fourth Senate Term
Lindsey Graham was reelected to his fourth term in the U.S. Senate in 2020.
2020: Calls Georgia Secretary of State Regarding Election Results
In 2020, Graham called Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to discuss the state's vote count, leading to allegations of attempting to influence the election outcome.
2020: Re-election to the U.S. Senate
In the 2020 Senate election, Lindsey Graham faced a tough challenge from Democrat Jaime Harrison. Although the race was competitive and Harrison raised record funds, Graham won by a substantial margin.
2020: Declined to Sign Amicus Brief to Overturn Roe
In 2020, he was among the 13 Republican senators who opted not to sign an amicus brief requesting the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade.
2020: Supports Investigation into Voting Irregularities
In 2020, Graham supported investigating alleged voting irregularities based on an affidavit that was later discredited.
2020: Sponsorship of Growing Climate Solutions Act
Graham sponsored the Growing Climate Solutions Act in 2020 to facilitate farmers' participation in carbon credit markets.
2020: Refuses to Concede Biden's Win
Following the 2020 election, Graham refused to concede Joe Biden's victory and donated to Trump's election lawsuits.
January 6, 2021: Acknowledges Biden's Legitimate Win
On January 6, 2021, after the Capitol attack, Graham acknowledged Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the lawfully elected President and Vice President.
February 2021: Investigated for Call to Georgia Secretary of State
In February 2021, Graham's call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger was investigated as part of a criminal probe into election interference.
May 28, 2021: Votes Against January 6 Commission
On May 28, 2021, Graham voted against creating a commission to investigate the January 6 attack on the Capitol.
July 8, 2021: Criticism of Biden's Afghanistan Withdrawal Plan
On July 8, 2021, Graham criticized President Biden's decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan, calling it a "disaster in the making."
August 2021: Reportedly Called Biden to Revive Friendship
In August 2021, it was reported that Graham called Biden after the election to revive their friendship and admitted that his call for a special counsel investigation into Hunter Biden was to appease Trump supporters.
2021: End of Chairmanship
In 2021, Lindsey Graham's term as chairman of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary ended.
February 2022: Introduction of Bipartisan Legislation on Child Sexual Abuse Material
In February 2022, Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal jointly introduced bipartisan legislation as a component of the EARN IT Act. This legislation sought to encourage tech companies to eliminate child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from their platforms and revoke blanket immunity for offenses related to online child pornography.
March 3, 2022: Controversial Tweet Regarding Vladimir Putin
On March 3, 2022, Graham faced backlash for a tweet suggesting that someone in Russia should "take out" Vladimir Putin.
May 2022: Advocacy for Overturning Roe v. Wade
In May 2022, Graham advocated for the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade, asserting that allowing states to determine abortion legality would be the most constitutionally sound approach.
June 2022: Assertion on Federal Government's Lack of Authority on Abortion
He stated in June 2022 his belief that the Constitution doesn't grant the federal government the right to regulate abortion.
August 2022: Reinforcement of States' Rights on Abortion
Graham reiterated his stance in August 2022, emphasizing that states should decide on abortion.
August 2022: Opposition to Federal Recognition of Same-Sex Marriage
In August 2022, following House approval of a bill to federally recognize same-sex marriage, Graham expressed that states should decide the issue, opposing federal involvement.
September 2022: Introduction of Federal Abortion Ban Legislation
Despite previous statements supporting states' rights on abortion, Graham introduced legislation in September 2022 for a federal ban on abortions after 15 weeks, with exceptions for rape, incest, and to save the life of the patient.
2022: Support for Bipartisan Gun Control Agreement
In 2022, Senator Graham was among the ten Republican senators who supported a bipartisan agreement on gun control. The agreement encompassed provisions like a red flag provision, support for state crisis intervention orders, funding for school safety resources, enhanced background checks for buyers under 21, and penalties for straw purchases.
2022: Reiteration of Support for Defense of Marriage Act
In 2022, Graham reaffirmed his support for the Defense of Marriage Act.
January 28, 2023: Attends and Supports Trump's 2024 Campaign Rally
On January 28, 2023, Graham appeared at Trump's first 2024 campaign rally and expressed his support for Trump.
May 26, 2023: Remarks on Russian Casualties in Ukraine War
On May 26, 2023, Graham sparked controversy with remarks about Russian casualties and U.S. military aid to Ukraine during a meeting with President Zelenskyy. The Office of the President of Ukraine clarified the comments by releasing an unedited version of the conversation.
May 29, 2023: Russian Arrest Warrant and Graham's Response
On May 29, 2023, Russia issued an arrest warrant for Graham, to which he responded with defiance and a willingness to submit to the ICC's jurisdiction.
October 10, 2023: Support for Israel During 2023 Israel-Hamas War
On October 10, 2023, Graham expressed strong support for Israel during the 2023 Israel-Hamas war.
October 31, 2023: Statement on Civilian Casualties in Gaza
On October 31, 2023, Graham stated that civilian casualties in Gaza would not change his support of Israel's goal of eradicating Hamas.
November 2023: Co-sponsorship of Foreign Pollution Fee Act
In November 2023, Graham and Bill Cassidy co-sponsored the Foreign Pollution Fee Act, proposing a carbon tariff on energy and industrial imports from countries with higher greenhouse gas emissions than the United States.
2023: Response to the 2023 Israel-Hamas War
During the 2023 Israel-Hamas war, Graham suggested bombing Iran, even if it wasn't involved in Hamas's attack, and claimed that the U.S. would win a war against Iran.
2023: Ranked High for Bipartisanship
In 2023, the Lugar Center ranked Graham highly for bipartisanship, despite facing criticism from the Tea Party for his willingness to work with Democrats.
2023: Graham Votes Against Fiscal Responsibility Act
Lindsey Graham voted against the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023.
May 8, 2024: Graham's Controversial Remarks on Israel-Hamas War
On May 8, 2024, Lindsey Graham warned against halting arms supply to Israel, comparing the situation to "Hiroshima and Nagasaki on steroids." This statement sparked controversy and protests in Japan.
2024: Supports Trump's 2024 Presidential Run
Graham publicly supported Trump's 2024 presidential campaign.