Graham Endorses Bush: S.C. Will ‘Reset This Race’ and Give Jeb the ‘Momentum’ He Needs to Win

"Here’s what I’m convinced of more than anything else. Jeb Bush is president of the United States and he’ll put the country ahead of the party. He was a governor of a very diverse state that brought people together. America is a very diverse country desperately in need of leadership to bring us together. 

As to South Carolina, we have a reputation of picking the most conservative person who can win. I think Jeb by any reason of definition is a fiscal and social conservative and above all others he understands conservatism when it comes to national security. Conservatism when it comes to national security is building a strong military second to none and using it smartly, forming alliances that will make us safe over here. 

Jeb has come to the conclusion that I have. You have two choices in fighting this war. Fight it over there smartly, or fight it in our backyard. I’ve spent most of my adult life in the military. It’s been one of the things I’m most proud of. I know those who are fighting this war. I’ve walked in their shoes. I’ve spent time trying to learn their world. I would not endorse someone that I did not believe in that would really truly have their backs. 

So ladies and gentlemen, South Carolina is going to reset this race. On February 20th we’re going to give Jeb Bush the momentum that he needs and deserves to win the nomination. And to the Republican Party, Jeb Bush is going to be a nominee that can win an election that is a party we can’t afford to lose. He will be the president that can reset the world, bring us together and solve hard problems. Above all else, he’s a good man who is comfortable in his own skin and who understands that truly what makes America great is our diversity. Not who we hate but what we love. The next president of the United States, Jeb Bush.”