Lindsey Graham says Trump 'not far behind God' in primary victory speech

COLUMBIA, SC: Sen Lindsey Graham delivered one of the most striking tributes yet to President Donald Trump during his South Carolina primary victory speech, joking that the president was "not far behind God" after crediting Trump's endorsement with transforming his campaign.

Fresh off a commanding primary victory, Graham used his election night remarks to emphasize the enormous role Trump's backing played in securing his path to another Senate term.

Lindsey Graham hails Donald Trump

The longtime senator defeated a field of challengers, including businessman Mark Lynch, and will now advance to the general election as a heavy favorite.

But rather than focus solely on his own campaign operation, Graham repeatedly highlighted Trump as the key figure behind his success.

Speaking to supporters after his victory, Graham opened by thanking God before turning to the president in a line that quickly became the headline of the night.

"I want to thank the big guy, God. Trump comes later," Graham said. "Mr President, you're not far behind God, but we're going to start with him."

The crowd responded warmly as Graham continued praising Trump, whom he described as the most influential figure in Republican politics.

According to Graham, Trump's endorsement fundamentally altered the trajectory of the race.

"Mr President, when you endorsed me early on, it changed everything," Graham said. "You're the gold standard in the Republican world, the most consequential endorsement, I think, in the history of politics."

A window into Trump's grip on the GOP

The senator added that South Carolina voters listened when Trump spoke and suggested the endorsement helped solidify support at a critical point in the campaign.

Graham has been one of Trump’s most loyal allies in Washington for years, often standing up for the president on foreign policy, judicial nominations and legislative priorities. The duo’s alliance has allowed Graham to remain a favorite of the Republican base despite some ups and downs over the years.

The South Carolina primary was another example of that dynamic. Graham ran with the backing of Trump and ultimately scored a huge victory over opponents who couldn’t gain much traction.

"South Carolina rejected garbage in the form of Mark Lynch," he said. "So what have we learned tonight? If you throw garbage at the people of South Carolina, they will kick you in the a*s. So I have a lot to be grateful for. There may be a lot of self-made people in the world, but I am not one of them."

“I think inhistory of politics. And when you spoke, the people of South Carolina listened.”

The senator also used his speech to attack challenger Mark Lynch, saying South Carolina voters had rejected what he called "garbage" politics. Graham argued that the election results validated both his record and his political vision for the state.

"I'm coming back to the Senate," he told supporters. "I'm going to win in November, and I'm going to help you change this world and change this country."

Looking ahead, Graham pledged to return to Washington and continue working alongside Trump should Republicans maintain their momentum through November.