Wes Hickam (202 224-5972) or Kevin Bishop (864 250-1417)

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made the following statement on news that U.S. Senator Fritz Hollings will retire from the Senate in 2004. “Senator Hollings has answered his state and nation’s call serving in World War II, as a member of the state legislature, Governor, and for more than thirty years as a U.S. Senator. “He tells you what he thinks, whether you agree with him or not. He’s one of the most direct and straightforward people I’ve met in political life. He’s also been incredibly kind to me as South Carolina’s first new Senator in thirty seven years. “Senator Hollings has a great ability to set aside philosophical differences and work with anyone for the betterment of our state. It’s a trait I admire and should serve as wise guidance for all of us representing South Carolina in Congress. “I wish him and Mrs. Hollings all the best in their new endeavors and am confident they will continue to contribute to the well-being of our state and nation.” #####