Sen. Lindsey Graham, attempting to shore up the Palmetto State’s vast conservative base ahead of the June Republican primary, has cut a radio ad featuring President Bush.

“I’ve had no stronger supporter in the United States Senate than Lindsey Graham for putting good judges on the bench,” Bush says in the ad. “And Sen. Graham, I’m proud to call you friend, and I believe the people of South Carolina benefit from your leadership as the Senator from this important state,”

Graham’s “Gang of 14” membership and stance on immigration has drawn grumbles from right-wing activists in his state, but he has so far avoided a credible primary challenger this cycle. He had more than $4.7 million in the bank as of Dec. 31.

South Carolina’s filing period began Sunday and runs through March 30.
— Matthew Murray