Graham’s Death Cuts Senate GOP to 52-47, Jeopardizing $350 Billion Defense Push

3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jul 13

Senate Republicans lost a key vote counter and Trump ally with Lindsey Graham’s death, complicating this week’s push to confirm attorney general nominee Todd Blanche before the August recess.
A 52-47 majority now looks even tighter because Mitch McConnell’s return remains uncertain, raising the risk that Republicans cannot move nominations and major bills on their brief July schedule.
The annual defense policy bill is also in danger: Graham had been expected to steer floor debate as Democrats threaten to block the measure over the Iran war and military funding disputes.
A separate party-line package adding $350 billion for defense took another hit because Graham, as Budget chair, was supposed to lead it; successor Ron Johnson has signaled more deficit caution.
South Carolina Republicans now face an Aug. 11 snap primary to replace Graham on the ballot, while Senate and House Republicans begin jockeying over his committee roles and any interim appointment.

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