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Top Lindsey Graham Donor Flips on Graham, Comes Out in Support of His Democratic Challenger

Top Lindsey Graham Donor Flips on Graham, Comes Out in Support of His Democratic Challenger
Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) was formerly seen as a moderate Republican, and he was disgusted by the antics of then-candidate Donald Trump on the 2016 campaign trail. Graham famously tweeted that Republicans would get "destroyed" and "deserve it" if they nominated Donald Trump, whose bigotry he wasn't afraid to call out.

But since Trump's ascension to the Presidency, Graham has become one of his most shameless allies, defending him on everything from his extortion of Ukraine to his violent rhetoric.


Lindsey Graham is up for reelection, with November fast approaching, and the Senator just learned that he's not the only one whose allegiance can change.

Richard Wilkerson—a Michelin executive and top donor to Graham—recently announced that he'd be supporting Graham's Democratic challenger: South Carolina Democratic Party chair Jaime Harrison.

Harrison once worked as a lobbyist for Michelin, urging Congress to pass more fuel efficient tire standards and standards for greenhouse gas reduction.

Wilkerson said of the Harrison:

"I am confident that as our next U.S. Senator he will be a tireless advocate for creating well-paying jobs, improving our state's healthcare system, and training the next generation for the jobs of tomorrow. Jaime is the perfect candidate to bring together South Carolinians from all walks of life. I am proud to endorse Jaime today, and I know first hand he is the change South Carolina needs."

Harrison was quick to celebrate the endorsement on Twitter.

Harrison wasn't the only one celebrating.







Harrison still faces an uphill battle in heavily Republican South Carolina, but a path to victory isn't exactly a nonstarter. Recent polling shows Graham ahead of Harrison by only four points. Just one month ago, other polling showed Graham ahead by 17.

Harrison's supporters see a path to victory.



Wilkerson's not the only one who can help back Harrison for Senate: You can too!

Donate to his campaign here.