What Has Happened To Linsey Graham?

By Shedrick Byrd

Special to the New Journal and Guide

Linsey Graham is the South Carolina Senator whose views and behavior toward Donald Trump changed dramatic in the past two years.  It has changed to the point until many Americans are asking the question:  “What has happened to Linsey Graham.”

I was watching the Rachael Maddow show on MSNBC the other night when Rachael’s stand-in, Ari Melber had a telephone conservation with Lev Parnas, an associate of Rudy Giuliani who was involved in the Trump Ukraine scandal.

Parnas named a list of characters, he called “the gang” who he claimed to be involved in and working with Trump in the Ukraine scandal.  He listed names such as, William Barr, Devin Nunes, Rick Perry along with Linsey Graham.  I was somewhat shocked to hear Graham’s name, but it did give me an “aha” moment.  If Parnas is telling the truth that would explain why Graham is behaving like he is.  He is trying to save his own skin from prosecution.  

About two years ago Graham went golfing with Trump.  After that golf trip he became a different person.  Before the golf date he was more on the lukewarm side of supporting Trump.  Especially after what Trump had done to him in the Republicans primary.  I often wondered, what did Trump do to Graham on that golf course?  But whatever it was, Graham made a dramatic change.  

Now it seems to come to light; Trump may have co-opted Graham in to joining him in corrupt behavior in Ukraine, and Graham has not been the same since.  He is very defiant when he speaks out in support of Trump’s actions in Ukraine.  He is sacrificing his dignity, career and integrity and possibly, if the issue is pushed by the House he may face an indictment.  This could be true if what Parnas is telling the truth.  

Not only am I concerned about where Graham will take the country to protect himself, I worry about the support he and Senate Leader Mitch McConnell are getting from the rest of the senators.  The Republicans are voting against having witnesses in the Impeachment trial.  It’s been previously noted that McConnell and his wife, Trump’s Secretary of Transportation, Elaine Chao, have been involved in corrupt activities but the House or the Senate has not taken any action against them.  I now wonder if the House will investigate Graham’s activity.

Investigations may reveal some clarity about who all comprises the gang that’s “in bed with” Trump and why they have led the Senate to oppose witnesses who will name all of the persons who have been at meetings and informed throughout the Trump’s effort to coerce Ukraines leader to play politics for him.  Stand by!  This story may continue! 

Shedrick Byrd is a frequent contributor to the New Journal and Guide.