Sen. Graham endorses Jeb Bush

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Lindsey Graham endorses Jeb Bush for president

Republican senator says Bush is ready to be commander-in-chief

South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, who until recently was a presidential candidate himself, on Friday endorsed Republican Jeb Bush in the 2016 race.

Graham, known for his hawkish views on national security, described the former Florida governor as best-prepared to lead the military.

"I have concluded without any hesitation, without any doubt, that Jeb Bush is ready on day one to be a commander-in-chief worthy of the sacrifices of the 1 percent who have been fighting this war,” he said.

Asked about the endorsement, Bush called Graham “probably the most knowledgable person on the Hill” on foreign policy and national security.

“I’m excited about it,” he told Fox News.

The endorsement comes on the heels of Thursday’s Fox Business Network debate in South Carolina.

Bush’s poll numbers have been dropping steadily in recent months, even slipping behind several other candidates in the critical state of New Hampshire.

Graham dropped out of the presidential race in December.

Fox News’ John Roberts contributed to this report.