US President Donald Trump gave his "full endorsement" to Senator Lindsey Graham for his 2026 re-election bid in South Carolina, surprising the Republican lawmaker with a personal phone call during a public gathering on Saturday.

Graham, who is seeking a fifth term in the United States Senate after first being elected in 2002, was addressing supporters when Trump called and praised his long-time ally.

"Lindsey, thank you so much, you've been my friend. I know you are in a big race, and I don't think it's going to be a contest, but I have a feeling you're going to do very well. You have for a long time. Lindsey Graham, just so you know, full endorsement. Trump's full endorsement. He's a great guy. Every time I needed him, he was there for me," Trump said over phone.