Senator’s visit sparks excitement for McCain campaign

U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina visited Liberty University on Tuesday to motivate Virginians to join the campaign for McCain.

“I’m here because we’re trying to win Virginia,” Graham said. “The positive message of Senator McCain needs to be told.”

The event was hosted by College Republicans and the Lynchburg GOP. Tables were set up outside the Football Operations Center’s main dining hall to recruit volunteers for the Virginia 72-Hour Signup. Those who signed up will be involved in phone banking and in door-to-door campaigning for McCain between Oct. 24 and Election Day.

Born and raised in South Carolina, Graham earned his undergraduate and law degree from the University of South Carolina in Columbia. He served six-and-a-half years on active duty as a lawyer in the United States Air Force. In 1989, Graham joined the South Carolina National Guard and served there until his election to the United States House of Representatives in 1994. He was elected to serve as a United States senator in November 2002.

Upon his election, Graham became the first Republican to represent South Carolina’s Third Congressional District since 1877. Graham continues to serve in the Air Force Reserves and is the only U.S. senator currently serving in the Guard or Reserves.