Darline Graham Faces Taiwan Backlash
Darline Graham Nardone drew criticism after a debate mistake about Taiwan.
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Analysis & opinion
The reporting
Trump-backed Sen. Darline Graham, appointed to succeed her late brother Lindsey Graham, admitted in a South Carolina GOP runoff debate with Rep. Ralph Norman that she was “not that informed on national security” when asked about Taiwan and the South China Sea. The response put her foreign-policy credentials at issue days before the runoff, where she is seeking a full term. Graham sought to limit the fallout on Fox News, saying, “I don’t speak politician,” and calling the answer honest. Trump is scheduled to rally for her in Myrtle Beach on Friday.
Analysis & opinion
Debate DebacleLeans Left
Darline Graham’s debate showing was a serious embarrassment that made her look unready for a Senate campaign. Her later attempts to explain or clean up the lapse only made the episode look worse rather than restoring confidence.
Hannity FavoritismLeans Left
Sean Hannity gave Darline Graham protective treatment instead of scrutinizing her the way he would scrutinize a Democrat. His defense was hypocritical because he had attacked similar mistakes from liberal politicians much more harshly.
Taiwan PreparednessCenter & Right
A Senate candidate should be able to explain why Taiwan matters to U.S. national security. Graham’s unfamiliarity with that issue is unacceptable because senators must be prepared to handle major foreign-policy questions.
Weak CandidateBalanced
Graham has shown enough political and substantive weakness to raise real doubts about her fitness as a Senate nominee. Her debate lapse, national-security gaps, and mishandling of a toxic donation give opponents strong evidence that she is not up to the race.
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