Trump urges S.C. governor to appoint Sen. Graham’s sister as temporary replacement

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-13 12:15:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump Calls for Lindsey Graham’s Sister to Fill Senate Seat After Senator’s Death

President Donald Trump publicly recommended on Monday that South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appoint Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, as Graham’s temporary replacement in the U.S. Senate. Trump posted on social media that Nordone should fulfill the remainder of Graham’s term, which expires in January.

Graham, who died over the weekend at age 71, was known for his close relationship with his sister, whom he raised after their parents died when they were young. Nordone was by Graham’s side earlier this year as he filed for reelection, highlighting their longstanding family bond.

The appointment process is moving quickly, with sources indicating that the interim senator could be sworn in as soon as Wednesday. Governor McMaster is expected to announce his decision later Monday, and Senator Tim Scott, who has spoken with Graham’s sister multiple times since the senator’s death, plans to attend the announcement.

A special election will be held next month to determine the Republican nominee for the general election to fill Graham’s seat. The open Senate seat has already sparked significant interest among South Carolina’s Republican leaders, many of whom are eager to advance their political careers.

Trump’s public endorsement of Darline Graham Nordone is a notable intervention in the state’s political process, underscoring his ongoing influence within the Republican Party and in South Carolina politics specifically. The recommendation comes amid a rapidly evolving situation, as state and federal laws governing special elections and ballot deadlines add complexity to the process.

As the state prepares for both an interim appointment and a special election, Trump’s statement has added a new layer of attention and urgency to the decision facing Governor McMaster. The coming days will determine whether Trump’s preferred candidate is selected to temporarily fill the seat of one of the Senate’s most prominent Republicans.

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Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-urges-s-c-governor-to-appoint-sen-grahams-sister-as-temporary-replacement

US to take over Strait of Hormuz, charge 20 percent fee for cargo shipped through, Trump says

Donald Trump — 2026-07-13 09:40:00 — www.politico.com

Trump Claims U.S. Will Become “Guardian” of the Strait of Hormuz

Donald Trump declared that the United States will become the “guardian” of the Strait of Hormuz, according to a post he made on Truth Social. This statement, made in the context of ongoing tensions in the region, signals a bold assertion of American military and strategic dominance over one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.

Trump’s Assertive Position

By stating that the U.S. will assume the role of “guardian” of the strait, Trump is positioning the country as the primary protector of this vital waterway. The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage connecting the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply is transported. Trump’s claim suggests a willingness to increase U.S. involvement and oversight in a region fraught with geopolitical risk.

Fact-Checking the Claim

Trump’s assertion raises questions about the feasibility and implications of such a role. The U.S. Navy has long maintained a presence in the region to ensure freedom of navigation, but becoming the explicit “guardian” of the strait would represent a significant escalation. No evidence was provided in the excerpt to support the claim that the U.S. has formally adopted this role, nor is there indication of international consensus or legal authority for the U.S. to unilaterally declare itself the “guardian” of an international waterway.

Pattern of Exaggerated Claims

This latest statement fits a broader pattern of Trump making sweeping declarations about U.S. power and influence, often without corresponding policy details or international backing. Such exaggerations can create confusion among allies and adversaries alike, and may complicate diplomatic efforts in an already volatile region.

Conclusion

Trump’s claim that the U.S. will become the “guardian” of the Strait of Hormuz underscores his tendency to make bold, sometimes unsubstantiated statements about American military power. While the U.S. continues to play a significant role in ensuring the security of international shipping lanes, Trump’s rhetoric goes beyond established policy and raises important questions about the future direction of U.S. engagement in the Middle East. Readers should remain attentive to the distinction between official policy and political posturing when evaluating such statements.

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Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/13/donald-trump-strait-of-hormuz-fee-00994508

McMaster, Trump look to Graham's sister for Senate

Politics — 2026-07-13 09:58:00 — www.politico.com

Trump Urges Appointment of Lindsey Graham’s Sister to Senate Seat, Shaping South Carolina’s Political Landscape

President Donald Trump publicly called for South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to appoint Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, to serve as interim senator following Graham’s death. In a post on social media, Trump stated, “I recommended, to Governor Henry McMaster, Lindsey Graham’s wonderful sister, Darline, to serve as interim Senator from the Great State of South Carolina. This would be a fabulous tribute to Lindsey, who loved her dearly!”

Trump’s Influence on the Appointment Process

Trump’s endorsement carries significant weight in South Carolina’s deeply conservative political environment. His call for Nordone’s appointment signals his preference for a caretaker senator, which would open the field for a competitive Republican primary to determine the party’s nominee for the full term. Several South Carolina Republicans, including Representatives Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, have already expressed interest in running for the seat.

Implications for the Senate Race

State law requires a snap Republican primary on August 11 to select a nominee for the general election. The compressed timeline is expected to favor candidates with recent statewide campaign experience, such as Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and Ralph Norman, both of whom have recently run for governor.

Fact-Check and Context

In this instance, Trump’s statement is a straightforward recommendation and tribute, with no false claims or disparagements identified within the excerpt. However, his public intervention highlights his ongoing influence over Republican politics in South Carolina and the broader national stage.

Conclusion

Trump’s recommendation for Darline Graham Nordone to serve as interim senator underscores his continued sway in GOP decision-making and sets the stage for a high-stakes primary. As the state prepares for a rapid election cycle, Trump’s involvement ensures that his preferences will remain central to the unfolding political drama in South Carolina.

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Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/13/trump-lindsey-graham-replacement-mcmaster-00994800

Live updates: Trump says US will resume Strait of Hormuz blockade; Graham's death scrambles Senate GOP's course

Administration News — 2026-07-13 10:14:00 — thehill.com

Trump Claims U.S. Will Blockade Strait of Hormuz and Impose 20% Charge on Cargo Amid Rising Tensions with Iran

President Trump on Monday announced that the U.S. military would resume its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and impose a 20 percent rate “on all cargo shipped,” asserting that the United States is the “guardian” of the strategic waterway. As tensions and strikes escalated with Iran, Trump declared, “The Hormuz Strait is OPEN, and will remain OPEN, with or….”

Escalating Rhetoric and Unprecedented Claims

Trump’s statement marks a significant escalation in both rhetoric and policy regarding the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for global oil shipments. By declaring the U.S. military would enforce a blockade and levy a 20 percent charge on all cargo, Trump positioned the United States as the self-appointed overseer of international shipping through the strait.

Fact-Checking Trump’s Assertions

Within his remarks, Trump made several bold claims. He not only declared the U.S. to be the “guardian” of the waterway but also asserted unilateral authority to keep the strait open and to impose financial charges on all cargo passing through. These statements represent a dramatic departure from established international norms, as the Strait of Hormuz is recognized as an international waterway under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. No single nation has the legal authority to impose such a blockade or levy charges on all international shipping without broad international agreement.

Implications and Historical Context

Trump’s pronouncement comes at a time of heightened conflict with Iran, raising concerns about the potential for further destabilization in the region. The assertion that the U.S. can unilaterally control access to the strait and impose fees on global commerce is not supported by international law or precedent. Such claims risk inflaming tensions with both Iran and other nations that rely on the free flow of goods through the Strait of Hormuz.

Conclusion

President Trump’s declaration that the U.S. military will blockade the Strait of Hormuz and charge a 20 percent rate on all cargo represents a significant and controversial shift in American foreign policy. His assertion of U.S. authority over the waterway and its commerce is not grounded in established international law, and his statements risk further escalating an already volatile situation. As the world watches closely, the consequences of such rhetoric and policy moves could have far-reaching impacts on global security and economic stability.

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Source: https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5964919-senate-graham-death-succession/

Donald J. Trump: “The Hormuz Strait is OPEN, and will remain OPEN, with or without Iran. We ar…

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-07-13 09:16:00 — trumpstruth.org

Trump Declares U.S. “Guardian of the Hormuz Strait,” Announces 20% Cargo Fee and “Iranian Blockade”

President Donald J. Trump has announced a sweeping new policy regarding the Strait of Hormuz, declaring, “The Hormuz Strait is OPEN, and will remain OPEN, with or without Iran.” In his statement, Trump said the United States is “reinstating the THE IRANIAN BLOCKADE, so named because it is only stopping Iran’s ships or customers from entering or leaving.” He further asserted that “all other countries will have fair and open use of the Strait.”

Trump’s Claims and Proposed Actions

Trump’s message outlines a plan for the U.S. to be “known as ‘THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT,’” and demands that the U.S. be “reimbursed, at the rate of 20% on all cargo shipped, for any and all costs necessary to do the job of providing safety and security to this very volatile section of the World.” He stated that this process and formation would “begin immediately.”

Fact-Checking Trump’s Statements

Trump’s claim that the U.S. can unilaterally impose a 20% fee on all cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz raises significant legal and diplomatic questions. The Strait is an international waterway governed by international law, and such a fee would require broad international agreement, not unilateral enforcement. No evidence is provided in Trump’s statement that other nations have agreed to this arrangement or that such a fee could be enforced without severe global backlash.

Additionally, Trump’s use of the term “Iranian Blockade” to describe a policy that “is only stopping Iran’s ships or customers from entering or leaving” is misleading. Under international law, a blockade is considered an act of war unless authorized by the United Nations Security Council. There is no indication in Trump’s statement that such authorization exists or that the international community supports this move.

Exaggerations and Distortions

Trump’s assertion that “all other countries will have fair and open use of the Strait” ignores the potential for escalation and disruption that could result from targeting Iranian shipping and its customers. The claim that the U.S. can guarantee safety and security in this “very volatile section of the World” while imposing new restrictions and fees is a significant exaggeration of U.S. capabilities and international acceptance.

Conclusion

President Trump’s declaration regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the so-called “Iranian Blockade” contains several misleading claims and exaggerations. The proposed 20% cargo fee and the assertion of unilateral U.S. control over an international waterway are not supported by international law or diplomatic consensus. As tensions in the region remain high, Trump’s statements risk further destabilizing a critical global shipping route, while raising serious questions about the legality and practicality of his proposed actions.

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Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/40006

Lindsey Graham, longtime Republican senator, dies at 71 after ‘brief and sudden illness’

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-12 08:37:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump Responds to Lindsey Graham’s Death, Recalls Close Relationship Despite Past Clashes

President Donald Trump, reacting to the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham, described the late South Carolina Republican as “like a member of the family. It’s very tough.” Trump made these remarks on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” adding that Graham had called him on Saturday night after returning from Ukraine and “sounded a little bit tired, but perfect.” In response to Graham’s passing, Trump ordered that flags across the country be flown at half-staff until next Saturday evening.

Graham, who had a complicated relationship with Trump, was initially a vocal critic during the 2016 presidential race. At one campaign rally, Trump publicly read out Graham’s personal cellphone number and repeatedly belittled him, while Graham called Trump “unfit for office” and used a profanity to describe him after Trump made disparaging comments about Senator John McCain.

Despite this contentious start, Graham shifted his stance after Trump’s election, becoming one of the president’s most loyal allies. Graham explained his change of heart in a 2018 interview, stating that McCain taught him the importance of helping the president succeed after an election, regardless of prior disagreements.

Throughout Trump’s presidency, Graham was a prominent defender, notably during both impeachment proceedings. Although Graham briefly broke with Trump after the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, declaring “Count me out. Enough is enough,” he soon returned to Trump’s side.

Graham’s influence extended to foreign policy, where he advised Trump on issues such as Iran and Russia, and was a key backer of Trump’s confrontational stance toward Tehran. He also played a central role in legislative efforts during Trump’s second term, including major tax legislation and judicial appointments.

The evolution of Graham’s relationship with Trump—from adversary to confidant—highlights the shifting dynamics within the Republican Party during Trump’s tenure. Trump’s public response to Graham’s death underscores the deep personal and political ties that ultimately defined their partnership, despite a history marked by sharp public attacks and reversals.

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Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/lindsey-graham-longtime-republican-senator-dies-at-71-after-brief-and-sudden-illness

So sad!!! President DJT

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-07-12 20:10:00 — trumpstruth.org

Please provide the excerpt from “So sad!!! President DJT” that you would like me to review and write a news article about.

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Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/39967

From staunch critic to fierce ally: Graham’s long, strange and consequential friendship with Trump

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-12 14:45:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump’s Shifting Relationship with Lindsey Graham: From Public Spats to Political Alliance

Donald Trump’s relationship with Senator Lindsey Graham has been marked by dramatic reversals, personal attacks, and ultimately, political alliance, as detailed in recent reporting.

Trump’s Public Attacks and Personal Disparagements

During the 2016 presidential campaign, Trump publicly denigrated Graham’s close friend, Senator John McCain, saying, “I like people that weren’t captured,” in reference to McCain’s years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. This remark drew widespread criticism and angered Graham, who at the time described Trump as “unfit for office.”

Trump’s antagonism extended directly to Graham as well. In a fit of anger, Trump released Graham’s personal cellphone number to the public, prompting Graham to destroy his phones in a widely shared video. These actions exemplify Trump’s willingness to personally attack and publicly embarrass political rivals, even within his own party.

Contradictions and Shifting Alliances

Despite these clashes, Trump and Graham’s relationship shifted dramatically after the 2016 election. Graham, who once likened Trump’s nomination to “being shot in the head” and refused to vote for him, later became a frequent golfing partner and staunch defender of Trump’s agenda. Trump, for his part, welcomed Graham back into his circle, inviting him to Mar-a-Lago for golf and dinner, and describing him as “like a member of the family” after Graham’s recent passing.

Trump’s Response to Graham’s Death

Upon learning of Graham’s sudden death, Trump posted on social media, calling Graham a “true American Patriot,” and told NBC’s “Meet the Press,” “I just can’t believe it. He was like a member of the family.” This response stands in stark contrast to their earlier public disputes, highlighting Trump’s tendency to shift tone and alliances based on political expediency.

Conclusion

Trump’s record, as illustrated by his interactions with Lindsey Graham, is marked by public disparagements, abrupt reversals, and a willingness to attack and then embrace political figures as circumstances change. These patterns underscore the volatility and unpredictability that have characterized Trump’s approach to both personal relationships and political strategy.

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Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/from-staunch-critic-to-fierce-ally-grahams-long-strange-and-consequential-friendship-with-trump

Michael Cohen Helped Convict Trump. Now, He’s Making Nice Again.

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-07-12 20:17:00 — www.nytimes.com

Trump Seeks to Recast Relationship with Michael Cohen Amid Legal Turmoil

Last summer, President Trump took the unusual step of meeting privately with his former personal lawyer and fixer, Michael D. Cohen, at his Bedminster, N.J. golf club. This marked the end of a yearslong estrangement defined by legal battles and public insults. According to sources familiar with the meeting, the conversation opened the door for Cohen to re-enter Trump’s orbit and initiated a broader effort to make peace.

Trump’s Changing Posture Toward Cohen

After years of calling Cohen a “rat” and a “liar,” and even suing him (a suit Trump dropped just before he was set to be deposed), Trump has notably stopped publicly attacking Cohen since returning to office. Instead, Trump has reportedly expressed sympathy for Cohen’s time in prison to aides and confidants. This shift comes as Cohen, who once helped prosecutors secure Trump’s conviction for falsifying business records, has begun to publicly criticize those same prosecutors and soften his tone toward Trump.

Trump’s lawyers have already cited Cohen’s recent remarks in court filings, using them to challenge the legal cases against the president. This is part of Trump’s broader effort to recast the narrative of his legal and political troubles, including the Russia investigation and his 2020 election loss.

Cohen’s Role and Trump’s Legal Strategy

Cohen, who played a central role in the hush-money payment to Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign, previously testified that Trump directed him to make the payment. Cohen was the only person to serve prison time for the deal. After his release, Cohen became a vocal critic of Trump, publishing books and hosting a podcast that detailed his experiences.

Now, with the apparent blessing of the White House, Cohen has launched a radio show on a Trump-friendly station in New York. He has defended the new détente with Trump and suggested that the president may even appear as a guest on his show in the coming weeks.

Potential Risks in the Trump-Cohen Reconciliation

Despite the thaw, there are risks for Trump. Cohen has made clear he does not agree with the president on everything and may not always stick to Trump’s talking points. The reconciliation is fragile, and Cohen’s shifting public stance could complicate Trump’s legal strategy, especially as Cohen continues to discuss his role as a witness in Trump’s criminal trial.

Conclusion

President Trump’s evolving relationship with Michael Cohen highlights his ongoing efforts to reshape the narrative around his legal challenges. By leveraging Cohen’s recent criticisms of prosecutors and ending public attacks on his former fixer, Trump is attempting to turn a onetime adversary into a potential asset. However, the unpredictable nature of their relationship means that this new alliance could bring both strategic advantages and unforeseen complications as Trump continues to battle multiple legal fronts.

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Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/12/us/politics/trump-cohen-meeting-show.html

An artist’s ‘I.C.E. pop’ exhibition was shut down within days at a Texas university : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-07-12 04:00:00 — www.npr.org

The White House, under President Trump, has withheld billions of dollars from federally-funded universities whose diversity and inclusion policies do not align with those of the administration. This move mirrors actions taken by several state legislatures, including Texas, which began abolishing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at state-funded colleges and universities in 2023 through a state senate bill.

This policy has had a direct impact on institutions such as the University of North Texas (UNT), where an art exhibition by Victor “Marka27” Quiñonez—focused on the dual cultural identity of U.S. Latinos—was abruptly shut down. The closure came amid a broader national trend of universities reversing DEI efforts and heightened political discourse around free speech and inclusion on campuses.

The Trump administration’s stance has contributed to an environment where universities face financial penalties for maintaining DEI initiatives, leading to increased caution and, in some cases, the removal of programming that addresses issues of race, identity, and immigration. The situation at UNT is emblematic of the chilling effect these policies have had on academic freedom and student expression across the country.

As universities navigate these pressures, students and faculty report a climate of fear and uncertainty, with some traditions and open discussions being curtailed. The ongoing debate over DEI policies and federal funding continues to shape the landscape of higher education, raising critical questions about the balance between government policy and institutional autonomy.

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Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/07/12/nx-s1-5783832/ice-pop-texas-victor-marka27-quinonez-artist