Fill-In Senator Admits She Is 'Not That Informed' on National Security
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Darline Graham, the sister of Senator Lindsey Graham and his current fill-in replacement in the U.S. Senate, admitted during a South Carolina debate that she is 'not that informed on national security.'
The comment came during a runoff debate against her opponent, Norman, ahead of an important vote for the Senate seat. A runoff happens when no candidate wins a majority in the first round.
Graham was asked about her knowledge of national security, a topic often discussed by senators because they help decide how the country protects itself from threats.
She reportedly said, 'National security is not my thing,' a statement that drew attention because it came from someone currently serving in a role that often deals with such issues.
When pressed further, Graham tried to defend her résumé, explaining her background and qualifications for the job despite the comment.
The exchange took place in a broader debate format, where candidates for the Senate seat answer questions and respond to each other in front of voters.
It remains unclear how this moment might affect voter opinion ahead of the runoff, but such comments from a sitting official are often closely watched by the media and the public.
Lindsey Graham himself is a well-known figure in national politics, and his sister's temporary role in his old seat has drawn added interest in the race.
Vocabulary7 words
- fill-in
- a temporary replacement for someone's job
- runoff
- a second election held when no one wins enough votes the first time
- national security
- the protection of a country from danger or attack
- defend
- to explain and support your position
- résumé
- a summary of a person's work history and skills
- debate
- a public discussion where people share and argue different views
- candidates
- people who are trying to win an election
Quiz
Answer key
1. Fill-in senator for South Carolina 2. Because she currently serves in a role dealing with such issues 3. False
Fill-in-the-blank listening
Play the audio again and fill in the missing words as you listen.
Darline Graham, the sister of Senator Lindsey Graham and his current _____ replacement, admitted during a South Carolina debate that she is 'not that informed on _____.'
The comment came during a _____ debate against her opponent, Norman.
Graham was asked about her knowledge of _____, a topic often discussed by senators.
She reportedly said, 'National security is not my thing,' a statement that drew attention.
When pressed further, Graham tried to _____ her _____, explaining her background and qualifications.
The exchange took place in a broader _____ format, where _____ answer questions.
Discussion questions
- Why might voters care about a senator's knowledge of national security?
- Do you think one comment in a debate can change how people vote? Why or why not?
- What qualities do you think are most important for someone running for the Senate?
- How do you think family connections, like being related to a well-known politician, affect a candidate's campaign?
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