Mar 26 2008
Graham Backs All Incumbents
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham told state House and Senate Republicans he would support — even raise money for — any incumbent challenged in a Republican primary.
Graham’s comments set him at odds with Gov. Mark Sanford, another prominent Republican, over GOP membership of the State House.
Sanford has criticized the Legislature as a whole — as well as singling out some lawmakers — for spending too much money, failing to reform government and putting local needs ahead of state needs.
Graham, who formerly served in the General Assembly, told House and Senate Republicans Tuesday they had earned his support.
“I’ll raise money for you. I’ll say you’re bad if you want me to. Whatever you want me to do, I’m here to help,” Graham said. “We’re a team … I do believe an incumbent Republican who has led and wants to build the party needs to be supported.”
Graham basically just admitted he is a party hack. This is not at all surprising since he is facing his own primary challenge for reelection to the U.S. Senate. There are plenty of legislators on both sides of the aisle in Columbia that need to go because they have stood in the way of smaller government, lower taxes, and reform. Incumbent or not, if they are blocking an improving of the state then they aren’t representing. Being an incumbent does not entitle you to a legislative seat for life.
