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Vol. I · No. 193 · 2385 Reports Monday, July 13, 2026
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Tim Scott discusses Lindsey Graham's evolution from Trump critic to ally

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Topics in This Edition

Summary

The segment features Sen. Tim Scott reflecting on Sen. Lindsey Graham's relationship with President Donald Trump. Scott describes Graham's shift from a vocal 2016 critic during the Republican primary to a close post-election ally who called himself Trump's 'North Star.' He highlights their friendship, noting it developed despite disagreements and was strengthened through competitive golf outings.

The interview is sourced primarily to Scott's firsthand observations as a fellow South Carolina senator who has been present in shared settings. No graphics, documents, or additional guests are referenced. The discussion frames the relationship as one of mutual respect forged over a decade.

Editorial Assessment

The broadcast accurately recounts well-documented history: Graham's sharp 2016 criticisms of Trump are confirmed in contemporaneous interviews and reporting, and his later role as a key ally—including self-description as the president's 'North Star'—matches multiple accounts. Trump's recent public tribute referring to Graham as a 'true American patriot' aligns with Scott's opening statement. The golf-centric bonding narrative is corroborated by Scott and other reporting, though the claim of playing 'more than any two other folks in public office at any time in history' lacks independent verification and appears anecdotal. Viewers miss broader context on policy divergences or external influences on the relationship, but the segment avoids distortion.

Key Moments

verified

Trump called Graham a 'true American patriot'

Trump's recent public statement following Graham's death uses this phrasing verbatim across multiple outlets

verified

Graham was aggressive critic of Trump in 2016 primary

Confirmed in 2015-2016 video and print interviews where Graham called Trump a 'jackass,' 'xenophobic bigot,' and similar terms

verified

Graham became Trump's 'North Star' and vocal Senate ally post-election

Graham used the 'North Star' self-description in 2026 interviews; transition from critic to ally is extensively documented

missing context

Friendship developed largely on golf course; they played more than any two public officials

Bonding via golf is corroborated, including estimates of 100+ hours; absolute 'more than any two' claim is anecdotal and unverified

Sources Consulted

  1. A Timeline of Donald Trump and Lindsey Graham's Relationship
  2. Sen. Lindsey Graham dies at 71 after 'brief and sudden illness'
  3. President Trump reacts to Sen. Lindsey Graham's death
  4. Sen. Tim Scott remembers Lindsey Graham's role in 'building bridges,' including with Trump
  5. Graham: Trump a 'race-baiting, xenophobic religious bigot'
  6. Trump: Lindsey Graham a 'disgrace,' 'nut job,' 'one of the dumbest'