President Donald Trump faced significant criticism from conservatives after he endorsed Senator Lindsey Graham for re-election last week. This move surprised many within the political right, prompting a flood of negative responses on Trump’s Truth Social platform.
Retired Army Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, who briefly served as Trump’s national security advisor, expressed his disapproval, stating, “Not someone I can get behind.” Flynn indicated a willingness to support Trump but hesitated to do so alongside Graham. Other commentators also voiced their discontent, with conservative analyst Shawn Farash declaring, “Sorry… I am not with Trump at all with this one. Not one bit,” and Chad Prather urging followers to “Just say NO to Lindsey Graham.”
In his endorsement, Trump declared that Graham has his “Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election” and assured supporters that the senator “WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN.” However, negative sentiment regarding both Trump’s endorsement and Graham appeared widely shared on social media platforms.
The backlash also included commentary from Townhall columnist Scott Morefield, who criticized Trump’s endorsement in a region where he believes any Republican candidate could prevail. Morefield highlighted the contrast between Trump’s support for Graham and his criticism of truly conservative figures like Chip Roy, Bob Good, and Thomas Massie, suggesting that Trump’s endorsements might lack sincerity and should be viewed with skepticism.
Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky, who recently attracted significant campaign donations after Trump’s negative comments about him on Truth Social, likened Graham to Liz Cheney, a Republican figure who has faced her own share of controversies. Massie remarked, “Senator Graham is objectively the ideological twin of Liz Cheney,” emphasizing his concerns about Graham’s alignment with conservative principles.
Mark Knoop, Graham’s campaign manager, defended the senator by claiming that he shares Trump’s dissatisfaction with Massie’s voting record on key issues. Knoop asserted that Massie’s votes often align with Democratic interests, which he views as a betrayal of conservative values.
Despite the criticism, Graham expressed gratitude for Trump’s endorsement and highlighted their upcoming golf meeting, suggesting a close relationship between the two men. He remains hopeful about receiving further backing from conservative organizations as his campaign progresses.
As Graham prepares for re-election in 2026, he reflects on a history of significant support during previous elections, including a decisive primary victory in 2020. However, after receiving mixed reactions at a recent rally in South Carolina, where he was met with boos, it remains to be seen how voters will respond to his campaign alongside Trump’s endorsement.
Graham’s supporters, including pro-life groups, are expected to show their backing at a press conference soon, highlighting his connections within conservative circles. As both Trump and Graham move forward into the election cycle, the impact of this endorsement on future voter sentiment is still unfolding.
