TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — US Senator Darline Graham's comments about Taiwan and national security have sparked criticism from Republicans and other political figures ahead of next Tuesday's Republican Senate runoff in South Carolina.
During a televised debate, Graham acknowledged that she lacks expertise in national security when asked whether geopolitical developments involving Taiwan and the South China Sea should be considered US national security concerns, per Politico.
"I'm just going to be honest here, I am not that informed on national security," Graham said. She later added, "National security is not my thing, not my area of expertise, but I do support the military."
The comments drew a negative response from the audience and gave her Republican opponent, US Representative Ralph Norman, an opportunity to question her qualifications for a full Senate term.
Graham was appointed to the Senate by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster in July to fill the vacancy created by the death of her brother, Senator Lindsey Graham. She is seeking the Republican nomination for a full term and has received the endorsement of President Donald Trump.
Lindsey Graham was known for his extensive involvement in foreign policy and national security issues, including strong support for Taiwan and US alliances in maintaining global order.
Norman seized on his opponent's remarks, arguing that a US senator must be prepared to address international security issues. He argued that issues such as Chinese surveillance activities and foreign purchases of property near US military installations demonstrate the importance of national security knowledge for members of the Senate.
Graham's campaign has sought to emphasize her experience serving South Carolinians and her focus on domestic issues. A spokesperson emphasized that South Carolina's grassroots voters at this moment were "more concerned with inflation and family livelihoods than with overseas defense issues," per Politico.
Due to a crowded field, neither candidate reached the necessary 50% threshold on Aug. 11 to secure the Republican nomination according to South Carolina election law. Darline Graham finished first with 32.8% of the vote, while Norman finished second with about 24.7%, per Politico.
The controversy also drew criticism from former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, who backed Norman in the Republican primary. Haley wrote on social media that foreign policy expertise is "not something you inherit," a remark widely interpreted as a criticism of Graham's reliance on her family connection to Lindsey Graham.
The debate has put Graham's lack of foreign policy experience under renewed scrutiny and could test the strength of Trump's endorsement as Republican voters prepare to choose between Graham and Norman.
For Taiwan, the controversy is significant because the Senate plays a central role in approving US defense legislation, arms sales, and other policies affecting the Taiwan Strait and broader Indo-Pacific security.
The Republican nominee will face Democratic candidate Annie Andrews in the Nov. 3 general election.
