Lindsey Graham: Bush, Rubio would do well in South Carolina primary

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who is considering running for president, said Monday that former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (R) and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) would both also do well in his state’s early presidential primary.

“I think Jeb would do well; the Bushes are well liked,” Graham said while appearing on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” before saying he wasn’t sure if New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, another possible 2016 contender, would do well in South Carolina.

{mosads}“Anybody who wins New Hampshire is going to do pretty well in South Carolina. Don’t discount how New Hampshire affects South Carolina,” Graham said. “But Marco, Jeb, there are several people who can do well.”

He was also asked about whether his friendly relationship with Hillary Clinton could complicate a presidential bid — and fired back with a small jab at Bush.

“Well, that would disqualify Jeb. Because apparently, Bill is like his illegitimate brother,” Graham said, likely referring to the post-presidential friendship of presidents Clinton and George H.W. Bush.

Graham said this weekend that there is a “91 percent” chance he will seek the GOP presidential nomination.

If he runs, he is expected to make foreign policy a centerpiece of his campaign.

Earlier this year, he launched a political committee designed to help him raise his profile as he prepares for a possible run.