[USA Today] South Carolina senator and former presidential candidate Lindsey Graham will endorse Jeb Bush for the Republican nomination on Friday, aides said.The Bush campaign scheduled a news conference with Graham for 9:45 a.m. ET Friday.
Graham made national security and the fight against the Islamic State his major campaign themes, but could never gain traction in the crowded Republican field. He dropped out of the race last month, and he and Bush have spoken fondly of each other in the weeks since.
"Lindsey Graham is probably the most knowledgeable person on the Hill as it relates to national security, military affairs, foreign policy, and his endorsement is very meaningful," Bush told Fox News.
A former House member first elected to the Senate in 2002, Graham is well-connected and well-organized in South Carolina, and his support could help Bush mobilize Palmetto State voters ahead of a Feb. 20 primary.
Others questioned the value of Graham's support in the long run.