Graham Statement on Senator McConnell Stepping Down as Republican Leader

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) made this statement after U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky) announced that he would step down as Senate Republican leader in November.

“Senator McConnell’s announcement that he will not seek Republican leadership in the next Congress is truly a ‘passing of the torch’ moment for the U.S. Senate. Senator McConnell will be remembered as one of the most effective leaders in the history of the U.S. Senate. Through sheer force of will, he has shaped the federal judiciary in a conservative fashion. 

“No one in the Republican Party has echoed the themes of peace through strength – the Reagan model of national security – better than Senator Mitch McConnell. He passionately believes in a strong America leading from the front and has been uncompromising in his view that we must deal with threats rather than wish them away.  

“I look forward to continuing to work with Senator McConnell in the coming days and months as we address major challenges like securing the southern border and helping our friends in Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. There is much to be done, and I’m sure that Mitch will run through the finish line as Republican leader.  

“History will record that Senator Mitch McConnell made a substantial and positive impact on the state he loves and the nation he adores.”