Graham ready to work with Democrats next term

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — With his re-election almost secured, U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham is ready to upset some of his fellow Republicans.

Graham says he will work with Democrats as long as they are willing compromise with him about shoring up entitlement programs for older people and improving the nation’s roads.

At a forum with business leaders Monday, Graham said he is willing to violate some pledges that most Republicans make and wipe out tax loopholes and deductions to raise more money. But he needs a Democratic partner to raise the retirement age and limit who gets full benefits for entitlements like Social Security and Medicaid.

Graham says his win with 56 percent of the vote over six challengers in the GOP primary shows South Carolina Republicans don’t mind him working with Democrats.