Sen. Lindsey Graham says GOP opposition to Export-Import bank is misguided

South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham says his Republican colleagues who don't want to reauthorize money for the Export-Import bank have lost their way as conservatives.

A potential 2016 presidential candidate, Graham is visiting New Hampshire. The state hosts the nation's first presidential primary.

Graham spoke Thursday alongside New Hampshire Sen. Kelly Ayotte at a business that has benefited from Export-Import bank financing.

The institution is a federal agency that provides financing for U.S. exports. Its charter is set to expire in June, and many Republicans are now calling for its end.

Graham is the lead sponsor of legislation to reauthorize the program. He says eliminating the financing option would make it difficult for U.S. businesses to compete globally and would cost jobs.