‘You’re Playing Russian Roulette with Our National Security!’: Lindsey Graham Slams GOP for Linking Tax Cuts to Border Security

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) expressed strong concerns on Sunday about Republicans who are attempting to pass tax cuts alongside border security measures. During an appearance on Fox News with host Maria Bartiromo, Graham warned that some GOP members are “playing Russian roulette” with the nation’s security by prioritizing tax cuts over immediate action on border security.

“I’m very worried that if we don’t put border first and get it done, it’s going to be a nightmare for our national security,” Graham declared. He emphasized the need to address illegal immigration, noting that President Trump had promised to deport millions of illegal immigrants.

“We’ve got millions of illegal immigrants that President Trump has promised to deport, and he should,” Graham stated. The senator highlighted the enormous financial cost of mass deportations, stating, “That cost 100 billion dollars.

I’m willing to offset the 100 billion with cuts in other places, but there’s no way in hell Democrats are going to give us 100 billion dollars for mass deportation.” Graham also raised alarms about the threat of terrorism, which he believes is increasing in the U.S.

“Terrorism is on the move,” he warned, adding that securing the nation should be the government’s top priority. While acknowledging the importance of tax cuts, which he said are worth $4.7 trillion and would damage the economy if they expire at the end of the year, Graham reiterated that national security must take precedence.

“I want the tax cuts. They’re 4.7 trillion dollars. They will ruin the economy if they expire at the end of the year,” he said, raising his voice for emphasis. “But I want to tell the American people, from my point of view, the number one job is to secure the nation for the federal government!”

Graham’s message to the GOP was clear: “To the tax cut wing of the party, I am with you, but if you hold border security hostage to get tax cuts, you’re playing Russian roulette with our national security!” His comments reflect the ongoing tension within the Republican Party over how best to prioritize key legislative goals, particularly amid concerns about border security and immigration.