Sen. Graham: US Should Take Lead Role in Libya

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., says he is glad that the United States is finally doing something to stop Libyan strongman Moammar Gadhafi from killing his civilians, but is disappointed America is not taking a leading role. Graham also said on “Fox News Sunday” he is glad there are at least “strong women” in the Obama administration.

“I’m glad we are finally doing something, I don’t know how many people have died as we wait to do something,” said Graham, a member of the House Armed Services Committee. “Thank God for strong women in the Obama administration.

“I don’t know what finally got the president to act, but I am very worried that we are taking the backseat rather than a leadership role,” Graham said. “The British and the French have been great … President [Barack] Obama is talking about limited action of days. Gadhafi is not the legitimate leader of Libya – he’s an international criminal – he should be investigated by Attorney General [Eric] Holder for his actions in Pan Am, we should isolate this regime.

“We used to relish leading the Free World – now it’s almost like leading the Free World is an inconvenience,” he said. “I want to be a good partner; I want the Arab world – young Arabs and young Iranians – to see us as a strong effective partner for their hopes and dreams of being free.

“And I think the president has caveated this way too much – it’s almost like it’s a nuisance – this is a great opportunity to replace a tyrannical dictator,” Graham continued. “We should seize the moment and talk about replacing him – not talking about how limited we will be.”