In a heated exchange with a CBS host, Lindsey Graham defends Kash Patel.

Graham advised Margaret to prioritize "fair reporting" over focusing on Patel.

In a heated exchange with a CBS host, Lindsey Graham defends Kash Patel.
In a heated exchange with a CBS host, Lindsey Graham defends Kash Patel.

During a live interview with Margaret Brennan on CBS' "Face the Nation," Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., had a tense interaction on Sunday.

Graham stated that he was "prepared" to vote in favor of confirming Kash Patel as FBI director, and he believes that Patel's confirmation hearing will reveal him to be a highly qualified individual.

After quoting former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr's memoir about Patel, the remarks were made.

In his 2022 memoir, Barr stated that Patel lacked the necessary experience to serve at the top of the world's leading law enforcement agency.

Bill Barr
Former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr is seen during a news conference on Dec. 21, 2020. CBS' "Face the Nation" host Margaret Brennan quoted Barr's 2022 memoir while speaking with Sen. Lindsey Graham on Jan. 19, 2025. (Michael Reynolds-Pool)

Graham disagrees with Barr's assessment of Patel, stating that he takes his advice on the nominee from former Rep. Trey Gowdy, who has worked with Patel.

"Graham stated that Kash worked as a public defender and prosecutor, and collaborated with Trey Gowdy on the Russia hoax. Therefore, he believes Kash has the necessary experience and the president's trust."

Kash Patel
President-elect Donald Trump has named longtime ally Kashyap "Kash" Patel, who has been a frequent and harsh critic of the FBI, to serve as the bureau's next director in the new administration. (Reuters)

"I'm voting for him because I know him well, and I appreciate his efforts in exposing the Russia hoax," Graham stated. "On the right, we believe he played a crucial role in resolving the issue."

Graham discussed the Middle East situation's connection to the global stage.

"I was taken to Israel by you from Kash Patel," said Brennan.

Lindsey Graham with Trump
Donald Trump shakes hands with Sen. Lindsey Graham following a meeting with Senate Republicans at the National Republican Senatorial Committee office in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, June 13, 2024. (Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

"Graham assured Rennan that there was no need to worry about Kash Patel targeting journalists."

Graham concluded that it is important to report the news fairly, but you don't do that when it comes to everything Trump.

The host reminded Graham that he is a guest on the show because "we wanted to hear you out," before going to commercial.

by Pilar Arias

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