Tim Scott defends Darline Graham’s ‘national security is not my thing’ comment
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Tim Scott defended comments made by fellow Republican Senate candidate Darline Graham regarding her knowledge of national security.
- Graham admitted during a debate that national security is "not my thing" and that she was not well-informed on related issues.
- Both Scott and former President Donald Trump have endorsed Graham, with Trump calling her admission "very honest."
South Carolina Republican Senate candidate Darline Graham's admission that national security is "not my thing" has drawn defense from fellow Republican Senator Tim Scott. During a debate ahead of the state's runoff election, Graham struggled to answer questions about U.S. national security interests in Taiwan and the South China Sea, stating she was not well-informed. Scott, appearing on NBC's Meet the Press, defended Graham, asserting that she is prepared to serve in the Senate and address the issues of the moment. He emphasized her ability to handle relevant topics, stating she "hits those issues spot-on."
I’m just going to be honest here. I’m not that informed on national security. National security is not my thing.
Despite her lack of experience in public office before her appointment to the Senate, Graham has secured endorsements from prominent figures. Former President Donald Trump, who traveled to South Carolina to rally for her, also addressed her comment. Trump described Graham's admission as "very honest," suggesting it was not a disqualifier. Graham was appointed to fill the Senate seat vacated by her brother, Lindsey Graham, following his death in July, and is now in a runoff against Congressman Ralph Norman.
Well, the answer is yes. And she does.
Originally published by The Guardian. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.