Lindsey Graham Steps Up To Bat For Gaetz

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) strongly urged his fellow Republican senators to resist the pressure from what he described as a “lynch mob” trying to force former Congressman Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) to withdraw his nomination for Attorney General due to unproven allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use.

In a statement released after a meeting with Gaetz and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, Graham expressed concern that the process was being overshadowed by baseless accusations, emphasizing that unverified claims should not be treated as fact. “I fear that the process surrounding the Gaetz nomination is being hijacked by an angry mob, and these allegations are being presented as if they are proven truths,” Graham stated. “I’ve seen this movie before.”

Graham’s remarks echoed the contentious confirmation battle in 2018 over Judge Brett Kavanaugh’s Supreme Court nomination, during which similar unverified sexual assault allegations were made against him. Despite a highly charged debate, Kavanaugh was confirmed by the Senate following a bitter confirmation process. Like Kavanaugh’s case, Graham reminded his colleagues that Gaetz has been thoroughly investigated by the Department of Justice, and no charges were ever filed.

The senator warned against rushing to judgment, urging Republicans to maintain fairness and due process. “After years of investigation, no charges were brought against Matt Gaetz. This is something we should all keep in mind,” Graham noted. He also called for the Senate to follow a “time-tested process,” one that allows the nominee to present their case before any decisions are made.

Graham stressed that this process should not be dictated by partisan frenzy or a “mob mentality.” “I urge my colleagues to remain focused on fairness, and to ensure this process reflects the high standards we’ve always adhered to. We must not allow this to become a witch hunt,” Graham concluded, reaffirming his commitment to a fair and thorough confirmation process.