A heated exchange erupted on the Senate floor Thursday as Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) confronted Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) about his opposition to advancing a border security deal she negotiated. Graham dismissed the deal as a “half-ass” effort to secure the border, sparking tension between the two senators.
Sinema expressed frustration over Graham’s vote to block debate on the bipartisan deal, emphasizing his role in crafting it alongside other senators. She challenged Graham to explain his opposition and questioned why he prevented colleagues from offering amendments to improve the bill.
Graham acknowledged the deal’s strengths but argued it fell short, particularly regarding border security. He criticized the lack of an open amendment process and bluntly labeled the effort as inadequate.
Sinema attempted to engage Graham further, highlighting Senate procedural rules regarding amendments. However, Graham dismissed the possibility of meaningful changes to the negotiated deal, accusing Schumer of rushing the process.
The exchange underscored differing perspectives on the bipartisan effort, with Graham asserting it lacked true bipartisanship and Sinema defending the inclusive nature of the negotiation process.
Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), another key negotiator, supported Sinema’s position, noting Graham’s involvement in shaping the deal despite his opposition during the floor debate.
