John McCain

14 December 2004

Dear Fellow Americacn:

I also respect Sen. Graham and all the work he has done for the great state of South Carolina and the nation. I am not nearly as concerned as you are about Sen. Graham supporting another presidential run by Sen. McCain, whom I also respect. I too saw the news max report and am excited about Sen. McCain running again.

Sen. Graham works with all of his colleagues well. I have noticed this by watching. I see nothing wrong with him being named as one of Sen. McCain's allies because he was the campaign chairman for Mr. McCain in 2000. Mr. McCain is powerful (in line to be the next Cahirman of the Armed Services Committee). Mr. McCain is also a good man.

Source: ImageShack

John Kerry may have considered Mr. McCain for the Vice Presidential pick but the discussions did not go anywhere. Regardless of what most think, Mr. McCain is independent at the same time as being a good Republican. I do not have a problem with Mr. McCain not bein "lovey-dovey" with President Bush. I think it is good that there are Republicans out there who will criticize the president when it is warranted.

It is unfair to cast doubt on Sen. Graham's commitment to conservative ideals because he is friends with and supports Mr. McCain. I think the independence of these two men should be celebrated and not criticized.

To: Sen. Lindsey Graham

December 13, 2004

Mr. Graham, I just want to let you know that I have always respected your work for SC and our great country. I have a little concern that recently came to my attention. Newsmax is reporting that John McCain may be planning on running for president again and they list you as one his "ally's." The text is as follows:

"McCain talked openly of his plans during a recent visit to London. There, he and his Senate ally, Senator Lindsey Graham, met with leading political and media figures for lunch. They left their audience with little doubt a 2008 race was in the works." (excerpt from an e-mail sent 12/13/2004)

I understand that as a Republican you have to work with all other Republicans and they should all be considered "ally's." However, Mr. McCain is one of the most liberal Republican's (and one of the most powerful) in the Senate.

I am wondering if you share his liberal leanings. This all may be a mischaracterization of your relationship with Mr. McCain. If it is, then I understand that. If however, you are "getting in bed" with him, you may want to re-consider.

Anyone that John Kerry seriously considered as a running mate for VP and who does not seem to warm up too well with President Bush (even though he said he supported him for re-election) quite frankly scares me. And you could become guilty by association.

Thanks again for all you do for our wonderful state and country.

Mt. Pleasant , SC

(from Congress.org)