‘Is Darline Graham Qualified?’ NBC’s Welker Presses Tim Scott About Trump-Backed Senate Candidate’s Viral Debate Gaffe

NBC’s Kristen Welker grilled Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) about the viral debate gaffe made by his South Carolina colleague Sen. Darline Graham (R-SC).

In an interview on NBC’s Meet the Press Sunday, Welker played the widely-viewed clip of Graham being asked, during a Tuesday night debate, “Are Taiwan and the South China Sea national security issues for the United States? And if so, why or how?”

“I’m just gonna be honest here,” Graham said. “I’m not, on national security– I’m not that informed on national security, so– but I do support the military. My brother was in the Air Force for 33 years, so I will do everything I can to support the military. My dad was in the Army. I’m not a polished politician up here. National security is not my thing, not my area of expertise, but I support the military.”

Welker’s question to Scott was blunt.

“Is Darline Graham qualified to be a U.S. Senator?” Welker asked.

The senator, in response, was unequivocal.

“Darline Graham is the real deal,” Scott replied. He added, “Highly qualified, incredibly competent, ready for prime time. She’s ready to tackle the issues of affordability for the American people, and she’s ready to serve the great state of South Carolina in the United States Senate. I ask every Republican in South Carolina, vote Darlene Graham on Tuesday.”

“But Senator Scott, should a U.S. Senator have a basic understanding of national security issues?” Welker pressed.

“Well, the answer is yes, and she does,” Scott said. “The question we’re asking ourselves today is whether or not she is prepared to serve in the United States Senate and represent the people of South Carolina on the issues that are germane to the moment. What are the issues of the moment, and is she prepared to hit those issues? She hits those issues spot on. She hits the target bullseye.”

Graham, the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, has been under heavy scrutiny since being appointed to finish out her brother’s term by President Donald Trump — who subsequently endorsed her in the election for a full six-year term. She is running against Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) in what is thought to be a very close race.

Watch above, via NBC.

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