Tim Scott appelle le soutien à Darline Graham un "choix facile" malgré son échec au débat

Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) asserted Sunday that there is “no doubt” that Darline Graham is qualified to serve as a U.S. senator, despite her recent debate misstep on national security. During an appearance on NBC News' Meet the Press, Scott was directly asked whether Graham, his fellow South Carolina Republican, is qualified for the Senate. He responded confidently, stating that she is “highly qualified, incredibly competent, ready for prime time.” Graham, who was appointed to complete the remaining term of her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), is running in a special GOP primary runoff this week against Rep. Ralph Norman. The contest comes just days after Graham’s response during a debate with Norman sparked widespread discussion. When asked about the importance of Taiwan and the South China Sea to U.S. national security, she admitted, “I’m not that informed on national security… National security is not my thing, not my area of expertise.” She went on to say she supports the military, citing her family’s military service. Some Republicans have raised concerns about Graham’s preparedness to handle national security and foreign policy matters, especially given her brother’s legacy. However, Scott dismissed these concerns, calling her selection an “easy choice.” He emphasized that he had taken several weeks to endorse her, ensuring she was “ready” for the role. “The person I want in the Senate with me, representing the people of South Carolina,” he said, “is Darline Graham.” Graham’s campaign received backing from former President Donald Trump, who praised her commitment to putting “America first” during a rally in South Carolina. Trump told voters, “You vote for her, you’re going to be very proud of that vote.” Scott, who chairs the National Republican Senatorial Committee, also used the opportunity to address other races, including the Democratic primary in Michigan, where Abdul El-Sayed is challenging for the Senate seat. El-Sayed, who would become the first Muslim senator if elected, has faced scrutiny from the NRSC over his religious identity. The committee has posted social media content suggesting he has “terrorist ties,” despite a lack of evidence. In an earlier interview with Meet the Press, El-Sayed addressed these claims, stating, “It’s not radical to believe that people should be able to afford their groceries. It’s not radical to believe that you should have health care in this country.” Scott later noted that El-Sayed has campaigned alongside Hasan Piker, a Twitch streamer who once expressed controversial views about the September 11 attacks. “Birds of a feather flock together,” Scott remarked, implying that El-Sayed’s association with Piker reflects his political stance. Despite El-Sayed’s public denunciation of Piker’s past comments, Scott suggested that the connection still matters. Meanwhile, Graham continues to prepare for Tuesday’s primary runoff. Her campaign has focused on her personal story and her commitment to South Carolina, emphasizing her family’s military background and her dedication to supporting veterans and the armed forces. As the race approaches, both candidates are expected to intensify their efforts to secure voter support, with key endorsements and public appearances playing a crucial role in shaping the outcome.