South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham found himself in a peculiar situation this week when he revealed that his phone was in the possession of the FBI after a scam caller impersonating Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer contacted him. The revelation came during the Hill and Valley Summit, a gathering of lawmakers, defence contractors, venture capitalists, and others connected to the national security sphere.
The event, known for its rare bipartisan nature focused on defense and warmaking, saw both Republicans like Graham and Democrats like Schumer in attendance. Former President Donald Trump even spoke to attendees via phone. Graham’s spokeswoman, Taylor Reidy, confirmed that the Sergeant at Arms is investigating a possible hack of the Senator’s phone, but did not provide further details.
Graham, who has known Schumer for many years and has been involved in negotiations with him in the past, has seen a shift in his relationships in recent years. Once a go-between for Trump and Senate Democratic leadership, Graham’s loyalty to Trump has strained his relationship with President Joe Biden and his family. Even Dr. Jill Biden expressed disappointment in Graham’s rightward turn and embrace of Trumpian politics.
Despite these rifts, Graham and Biden found themselves on the same side in 2021 when they worked together on a bipartisan infrastructure package. Graham’s phone being seized by the FBI adds another layer of intrigue to the complex relationships and dynamics in Washington. The investigation into the hack and the implications it may have on Graham’s political future are sure to keep political observers on the edge of their seats.