Senator Lindsey Graham has announced his intention to file a lawsuit against the federal investigation known as “Arctic Frost,” following revelations that his private communications were included in the probe. Speaking on Fox News with host Sean Hannity, the South Carolina Republican expressed his frustration, stating, “I’m not going to put up with this crap anymore. I’m going to sue.” He described the investigation as being more egregious than the Watergate scandal, claiming it aims to undermine former President Donald Trump and target his political allies.
The “Arctic Frost” investigation, overseen by former special counsel Jack Smith, reportedly monitored the private communications and phone records of several Republican lawmakers during the inquiry into the January 6 Capitol riot. Fox News Digital previously disclosed that Graham was among those whose communications were tracked. Other lawmakers affected include Senators Marsha Blackburn (Tennessee), Ron Johnson (Wisconsin), Josh Hawley (Missouri), Cynthia Lummis (Wyoming), Bill Hagerty (Tennessee), Dan Sullivan (Alaska), Tommy Tuberville (Alabama), and Representative Mike Kelly (Pennsylvania).
Graham’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among Republican lawmakers, who have increasingly characterized the investigation as a politically motivated campaign against Trump and his associates. He highlighted the timing of Smith’s appointment as special counsel, which occurred just three days after Trump announced his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election in November 2022. By August 2023, Trump faced a total of 91 felony charges across jurisdictions in New York, Washington, and Atlanta, with Graham asserting that his phone records were unlawfully seized as part of this investigation.
The FBI initiated the “Arctic Frost” investigation on April 13, 2022, and Smith assumed his role as special counsel seven months later. Graham has consistently criticized the investigation, previously stating that those responsible should “pay big” for what he considers a breach of the separation of powers. His latest remarks indicate a willingness to escalate the matter into a significant legal battle as the political landscape heads toward the 2025 elections.
As Graham prepares for legal action, he may amplify scrutiny on the “Arctic Frost” probe, positioning it as a pivotal issue in the upcoming political climate.