Sen. Lindsey Graham has carefully evaded conservative attacks , political analysts say . His alliances with tea party lawmakers , large war chest contributed to his primary victory . Graham 's shifts are a strategic appeal to conservatives in his state , political analysts said . He is now the most powerful Republican in Congress and a leading contender for president's 2016 nomination.
Sen. Lindsey Graham has carefully evaded conservative attacks , political analysts say . His alliances with tea party lawmakers , large war chest contributed to his primary victory . He is now the most powerful Republican in Congress and a leading contender for president's 2016 nomination.