SENATOR MAKES POLITICO’S TOP 50 LIST

When the Politico released its list of the Top 50 Political Party Animals, there were a few surprising names that made the cut. Chief among the surprises, especially for South Carolinians, was Sen. Lindsey Graham.

Described as “one social senator,” Politico said Graham “can be seen everywhere from The Week forums — in support of his pal Margaret Carlson — to the Friends of Scotland Caucus cocktail reception. He’s the perfect guest: personable, knowledgeable, powerful and handy with a one-liner. The real plus? He can get along with Democrats.”

The website attributes the state’s senior senator’s extroverted personality to his humble Pickens County upbringing and service in the Air Force.

“Once Graham landed his seat in the House, he hit the national political scene like a Molotov mint julep, offering up pointed barbs and folksy Southern adages during the impeachment of President Bill Clinton,” the Politico wrote.

Other notable politicos that made the party animal list included deputy White House press secretary Bill Burton, columnists Margaret Carlson and Howard Fineman, former Mitt Romney spokesman Kevin Madden, and MSNBC host Chris Matthews.