The political career of Sen. Lindsey Graham, a figure known for his dynamic influence both domestically and internationally, was commemorated in Washington on Tuesday. Graham’s life, which began in the modest surroundings of his family’s pool hall in South Carolina, culminated in a distinguished tenure as a U.S. Senator, celebrated at his memorial services as “a true American original.”
Arriving at the U.S. Capitol in a flag-draped casket, Graham was honored as a respected dealmaker within the Senate, where he served for over three decades. In attendance at the Washington National Cathedral, President Donald Trump, along with various global leaders, paid homage to Graham’s significant impact on the international political landscape.
President Trump described Graham as “a giant of the United States Senate,” also recounting a lighthearted moment where he revealed Graham’s cellphone number during a campaign, a gesture that Graham humorously reciprocated by persistently calling Trump thereafter.
Notably present were leaders such as Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, highlighting Graham’s unwavering belief in the U.S.’s military power to address global challenges. Fox News’ Sean Hannity remarked that Graham would have appreciated the gathering of such influential figures.
The ceremony was attended by high-profile figures, including members of Trump’s Cabinet, Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, and Graham’s sister Darline, who was appointed to serve the remainder of his term. Graham’s sudden passing on July 11 was attributed to a likely aortic tear after his return from a NATO summit and a visit to Ukraine.
A place of honor for a ‘swashbuckling’ senator
During a service in the Capitol Rotunda, Vice President JD Vance recalled Graham as a “swashbuckling” individual, fondly remembered for his open suit jacket and affable demeanor. Senate Majority Leader John Thune emotionally described Graham as a “towering figure.”
Initially elected in 1994 during a Republican resurgence, Graham was among the first Southern Republicans in Congress since Reconstruction. He gained prominence as a manager in President Clinton’s impeachment and formed a notable alliance with Senators John McCain and Joe Lieberman, known as the “three amigos,” focused on national security.
Graham’s adeptness at navigating political currents was evident in his evolving relationship with Trump. Despite initial opposition, he became a close ally, with many referring to him as the “Trump whisperer.”
In his final days, Graham secured Trump’s backing for a bipartisan initiative to sanction Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. The Senate aimed to pass this as a tribute to Graham, with Zelenskyy present during the vote.
Graham’s champions and potential successors
At the cathedral, several prominent conservative leaders spoke, including Tony Perkins and Marjorie Jones Dannenfelser. Sean Hannity highlighted the importance of Graham’s family, with Darline Graham poised to continue his legacy by running in the upcoming primary.
Graham, who never married, was a devoted guardian to his sister following their parents’ deaths. Darline Graham is now entering the political arena, hoping to carry forward her brother’s enduring influence.
