President Trump responded via Twitter to South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham’s criticism of his decision to withdraw U.S. troops from Syria.
“So hard to believe that Lindsey Graham would be against saving soldier lives [and] billions of [dollars],” Trump tweeted. “Why are we fighting for our enemy, Syria, by staying [and] killing ISIS for them, Russia, Iran & other locals? Time to focus on our Country [and] bring our youth back home where they belong!”
So hard to believe that Lindsey Graham would be against saving soldier lives & billions of $$$. Why are we fighting for our enemy, Syria, by staying & killing ISIS for them, Russia, Iran & other locals? Time to focus on our Country & bring our youth back home where they belong!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 20, 2018
Graham has been a staunch supporter of much of President Trump’s agenda, particularly on border issues and judicial appointments, but the hawkish senator deviated sharply on Wednesday from the prospect of withdrawing U.S. forces from Syria, calling it an “Obama-like mistake.”
Withdrawal of this small American force in Syria would be a huge Obama-like mistake. https://t.co/atsjHUyJlB
— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) December 19, 2018
“While American patience in confronting radical Islam may wane, the radical Islamists’ passion to kill Americans and our allies never waver,” Graham said via statement. “An American withdrawal at this time would be a big win for ISIS, Iran, Bashar al Assad of Syria and Russia. I fear it will lead to devastating consequences for our nation, the region, and throughout the world.” (RELATED: Laura Ingraham, Jim Jordan Criticize Trump, Republicans On Border Wall Retreat)
Sen. Lindsey Graham President Trump’s plan to withdraw U.S. troops from Syria: “I have tried to help President Trump where I can … but I find myself in the situation where the best way I can help the president is to tell him the truth as I see it.” https://t.co/yFdfMe9DR8 pic.twitter.com/QERyTFkbv9
— ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) December 20, 2018
President Trump, however, is not without supporters on the issue, including Kentucky Senator Rand Paul.
WATCH: @BillHemmer got reaction from @RandPaul after @POTUS announced his decision to pull U.S. troops from Syria: “All of the naysayers in Washington will be against him. But, guess what? If you ask the American people, this is why President Trump won the election.” #nine2noon pic.twitter.com/t80oBYjgV0
— America’s Newsroom (@AmericaNewsroom) December 20, 2018