By Trendsetter Tribune 
On February 8, 2026, a coalition of Republican senators, led by Lindsey Graham (R-SC), launched a public defense of Deputy White House Chief of Staff Stephen Miller. The surge of support comes as a growing contingent of GOP colleagues calls for a “shake-up” in President Trump’s inner circle, citing Miller as a political liability ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
The “Liability” Debate
Critics within the GOP are reportedly “rattled” by recent events they believe are alienating moderate voters and endangering the party’s Senate majority.
- Operation Metro Surge: Miller is seen as the architect of the militarized immigration raids in Minnesota. Public outcry reached a fever pitch following the shooting of two civilian observers, Alex Pretti and Renée Good, by federal agents in Minneapolis.
- The Liam Conejo Ramos Case: The detention of a 5-year-old boy in Columbia Heights—allegedly used as “bait” to lure his mother out of their home—drew a scathing rebuke from U.S. District Judge Fred Biery, who described the administration’s tactics as a “perfidious lust for unbridled power.”
- Greenland and NATO: Miller’s recent CNN interview with Jake Tapper, where he asserted the U.S. is “entitled” to Greenland and dismissed “international niceties” in favor of “iron laws of power,” has reportedly infuriated NATO allies and some Senate defense hawks.
Graham’s Defense: “Karl Rove to MAGA”
Senator Graham dismissed the concerns of his “hand-wringing” colleagues, arguing that Miller is essential to the administration’s “offensive” strategy.
“He is Karl Rove to MAGA. People can disagree with Stephen on rhetoric… but is he in jeopardy in Trump World? Absolutely not.” — Sen. Lindsey Graham
Graham emphasized that Miller is currently orchestrating a high-stakes Senate vote for next week on sanctuary city funding, a move intended to force Democrats into an unpopular position before the midterms.
A Divided Conference
While over a dozen senators, including Tom Cotton (AR) and Dave McCormick (PA), provided on-the-record praise for Miller, the rift in the party is becoming increasingly visible.
| Pro-Miller Faction | Critics/Skeptics |
| Lindsey Graham: Applauds “aggressive” Arctic and border defense. | Thom Tillis (NC): Called Miller’s demeanor “condescending” and disrespectful to senators. |
| Tom Cotton: Values Miller’s counsel on “locking away criminals.” | Anonymous Battleground Senators: Argue the “broad brush” of Miller’s policies is hurting them in swing states. |
| Dave McCormick: Credits Miller with delivering on Pennsylvania’s energy and fentanyl priorities. | Anonymous Foreign Policy Hawks: Worry that threats to seize Danish territory are “needlessly dangerous.” |
The Shutdown Looming
The debate over Miller’s influence coincides with a critical funding deadline. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is currently operating on a two-week extension set to expire this Friday, February 13.
Democrats are threatening a full shutdown of the department unless the administration agrees to curb the “violence” of the ongoing deportation raids. With Miller reportedly advising the President to “stand firm,” the risk of a significant government lapse remains high.