Newly released documentary footage shows the late Sen. Lindsey Graham enthusiastically celebrating the commencement of the war with Iran, stating that President Donald Trump was "jacked" and "loves blowing stuff up." The remarks were made by Graham in February, shortly after Trump launched strikes that initiated the conflict. The footage was obtained by The Wall Street Journal from documentary filmmaker Alex Holder.
In the video, Graham is seen laughing as he watches Trump on television announce the strikes. "Look what we’ve done here. I almost cried," Graham said, referencing the long-held push for such action. He also shared a conversation with Trump, recounting, "I talked to Trump this morning; he’s jacked. He said, ‘Best thing I’ve ever done.’ He loves blowing stuff up."
Graham also made an optimistic prediction about the war's duration, suggesting it would last "three to four weeks," after which Iran would "start losing control of some cities." He envisioned increased Arab involvement and "almost irreversible momentum."
The war, which began five months ago, has led to the deaths of at least 18 U.S. service members and wounded over 600. The conflict has also driven up oil prices, contributing to a roughly $1 increase per gallon in gasoline prices compared to the previous year, according to AAA. The Pentagon estimates the cost to U.S. taxpayers has reached at least $37 billion, though analysts suggest the actual figure is higher.
Trump has repeatedly claimed the war would conclude quickly and has declared victory multiple times. The ongoing conflict has also impacted Trump's approval ratings, which were already low, potentially affecting Republican prospects in the upcoming November midterm elections. Graham, once a critic of Trump, became one of his closest allies in the Senate.