WASHINGTON — Supreme Court Justice Lindsey Graham?

The most powerful Democrat in the U.S. Senate seems to like the sound of it.

Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid on Tuesday threw out Graham’s name as one of four Republican senators “who would be outstanding Supreme Court members.”

Reid said he expects President Bush to consult with Democrats before naming a nominee for the court, which could soon have a vacancy. He also mentioned U.S. Sens. Mel Martinez of Florida, Mike DeWine of Ohio and Mike Crapo of Idaho.

Graham, 49, said he prefers to remain in the Senate, where he has served since 2003.

“I’m honored but have no desire to leave the U.S. Senate,” the 1981 USC Law School graduate said. “I believe I can serve my state and nation best in my current position.”

A conservative Republican who has endured GOP criticism lately for working closely with Democrats, Graham also used the opportunity to emphasize his own conservative credentials.

“I fully understand and appreciate there are many conservative, strict constructionists who are qualified to serve on the Supreme Court. I’m hopeful this means that another pro-life, social and fiscal conservative will be acceptable for unanimous Senate confirmation to the Supreme Court.”

In South Carolina, both Republicans and Democrats said Graham should feel good about being on Reid’s list.

“That is very flattering,” said Katon Dawson, chairman of the S.C. Republican Party. “I’m glad the Democrats are contemplating somebody with a 91 percent conservative voting record. That’s quite a compliment coming from a liberal Democratic senator.”

Should Graham — who has worked with Democrats on Social Security, military benefits and ending the filibuster crisis — take Reid’s endorsement as a sign he is cozying up too closely to the other party?

“I don’t think there’s ever any danger in anybody respecting you and your political ability,” Dawson said.

Dick Harpootlian, former chairman of the S.C. Democratic Party, sang Graham’s praises.

“Lindsey would make a great Supreme Court justice. He was an excellent trial attorney in South Carolina. He is independent from any ideology, a common-sense guy with intellectual horsepower.”

What Graham does not have is much experience on the bench.

A reservist in the Air Force and former active duty Air Force prosecutor and defense attorney, Graham was promoted to reserve appellate military judge in 2003.

Most Supreme Court nominees boast considerable experience on lower courts. But interest in appointing the next Supreme Court judge from outside the judiciary has increased. And that appointment could come soon.

Many Supreme Court watchers were surprised when Chief Justice William Rehnquist, who is in failing health, did not announce his retirement Monday.

A White House spokesman said Bush has a list of potential nominees but would not release it.

Last week, four Supreme Court justices met with Reid, Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and other Senate leaders to discuss nominations to the court.

Reid recounted their message: “They thought what would be a good idea is to start calling people from outside the judicial system. I think that’s something that we should listen to.”

Reach Markoe at (202) 383-6023 or lmarkoe@krwashington.com.