Biography

Lindsey Olin Graham, born on July 9, 1955, in Central, South Carolina, is a Republican U.S. Senator representing South Carolina. He has served in the Senate since 2003, following a tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1995 to 2003. Graham is known for his advocacy of a strong national defense and his willingness to work across party lines on issues such as immigration reform and judicial appointments.

Education and Political Experience

• Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of South Carolina
  • Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law

• Political Experience:

  • Served in the South Carolina House of Representatives
  • Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for South Carolina's 3rd congressional district
  • Elected to the U.S. Senate
  • Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee
  • Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee

Notable Achievements and Positions

• Military Service:

  • Served as an Air Force lawyer on active duty
  • Continued service in the South Carolina Air National Guard and U.S. Air Force Reserves, retiring as a Colonel in 2015

• Legislative Initiatives:

  • Co-authored the Graham-Cassidy amendment aimed at repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act
  • Advocated for comprehensive immigration reform and co-sponsored related legislation
  • Supported bipartisan efforts on climate change and energy independence

• Presidential Campaign:

  • Announced candidacy for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination, emphasizing national security and foreign policy expertise

Throughout his career, Senator Graham has been recognized for his commitment to national security, judicial matters, and his ability to collaborate across party lines on critical issues.