Sen. Lindsey Graham highlights record, defends experience

Graham pointed to the deepening of the Port of Charleston as one of his signature achievements, saying the project helped secure jobs across the state, including in the Upstate.

“About one in nine jobs depend on the port of Charleston, which is now…one of the deepest ports on the East Coast,” Graham said.

Graham said expanding the port to accommodate larger cargo ships was critical for companies, including BMW, which manufactures and ships vehicles worldwide through Charleston. He argued the project strengthened South Carolina’s economy and protected thousands of jobs.

Graham said a major part of his role is working with local governments to secure federal funding for roads, water systems, sewer projects, and healthcare facilities.

“What I like about my job is working with state and local government. I was a city attorney, I was a county attorney. A lot of mandates come from Washington. I’m trying to be a team player. I try to go to state and local officials, say, how can I help you?” he said.

As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Graham said he regularly reviews requests from communities across South Carolina.