FBI investigated South Carolina lawmakers in Navatek bribery scheme

The FBI investigated whether South Carolina's late Sen. Lindsey Graham and Rep. James Clyburn, along with Rep. Joe Wilson, were involved in a bribery pay-for-play scheme connected to Navatek, a Hawaiian naval defense contractor, according to a ProPublica report cited by WCIV and WCBD.

The investigation revealed that in March 2020, Graham met with Navatek executives and a lobbyist and allegedly agreed to help steer a $10 million government contract to the company in South Carolina. The former Navatek CEO, Martin Kao, told the FBI that Graham requested a $100,000 pledge for his reelection campaign.

Similar alleged arrangements were reportedly made with Clyburn and Wilson after Navatek approached their offices, according to ProPublica. Wilson has denied any illegal dealings, stating through his communications director that he has always complied with Federal Election Commission regulations.

News 4 reached out to the offices of Clyburn, Wilson, and the late senator's communications director for comments. Only Wilson's office responded, denying the accusations. The investigation is ongoing, with further developments expected as more information becomes available.