Lindsey Graham Warns Republicans Against Joining Matt Gaetz ‘Lynch Mob’

Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call via AP Images

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) warned his Republican colleagues not to succumb to what he described as a “lynch mob” mentality over the confirmation process for Matt Gaetz, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Attorney General.

Gaetz has faced investigation by the Justice Department and the House Ethics Committee over allegations of inappropriate relationships with underage girls — claims he has consistently denied.

The Justice Department investigation into Gaetz’s alleged conduct was closed without charges and the House committee probe was shut down, just days before a report on its findings was set to be published, when Gaetz promptly resigned following his nomination.

In a statement posted to X on Wednesday Graham slammed what he sees as a rush to judgment, defended the integrity of the confirmation process.

“I fear the process surrounding the Gaetz nomination is turning into an angry mob, and unverified allegations are being treated as if they are true. I have seen this movie before,” he said.

In a statement, Graham reaffirmed his commitment to the confirmation process, saying, “I tend to defer to presidential cabinet choices unless the evidence suggests disqualification. My record is clear.”

The senator continued: “I would also urge my colleagues to go back to a time-tested process, receive relevant information, and give the nominee a chance to make their case as to why they should be confirmed. This standard – which I have long adhered to – has served the Senate and country well.”

While some Republicans have expressed concerns about the optics of Gaetz’s nomination, Graham added: “After years of being investigated by the Department of Justice, no charges were brought against Matt Gaetz. This is something we should all remember.”