A shocking video from 2021 featuring Senator Lindsey Graham and former Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has resurfaced and gone viral following a disturbing incident in Washington DC. The clip shows Graham expressing serious concerns about vetting procedures during the chaotic Afghan withdrawal, while Mayorkas insisted all evacuees were thoroughly screened.
The DC Shooting Incident
The viral resurgence comes after Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan evacuee who entered the United States under Operation Allies Welcome, was charged with shooting two National Guard members near the White House. The incident has raised urgent questions about the effectiveness of the vetting process that Mayorkas vehemently defended back in 2021.
Investigations reveal that the suspect had previously served in a CIA-backed Afghan unit before being evacuated to the United States. This revelation has intensified scrutiny of who exactly was allowed into the country during the hurried withdrawal operation that saw thousands of Afghans airlifted to safety.
Political Fallout and Presidential Response
In response to the shooting incident, President Donald Trump has ordered a full review of all Afghan evacuees and green cards issued to individuals from what the administration terms "countries of concern." This move signals a significant policy shift and reflects growing security apprehensions.
The timing couldn't be more dramatic for Mayorkas, whose 2021 assurances are now being widely circulated on social media and news platforms. In the viral clip, Graham can be heard pressing the DHS Secretary about whether evacuees were "100% vetted," to which Mayorkas responded with unwavering confidence in the screening process.
Broader Implications for Immigration Policy
This incident has sparked a broader debate about national security protocols surrounding refugee and evacuee programs. The shooting near one of America's most secure locations has amplified concerns that critics voiced during the initial evacuation phase.
Lawmakers and security experts are now calling for more transparent vetting procedures and thorough background checks for all individuals entering the United States through similar programs. The case has particularly highlighted the challenges of verifying backgrounds in conflict zones where record-keeping may be incomplete or unreliable.
As investigations continue, the White House incident serves as a sobering reminder of the complex balance between humanitarian obligations and national security priorities. The ongoing review ordered by President Trump is expected to yield significant policy changes in how the United States processes evacuees from high-risk regions.
