In a day of tributes, Lindsey Graham is remembered as a tireless Washington mainstay
Lawmakers, world leaders, and the President gathered Tuesday at the Washington National Cathedral for the first day of funeral services honoring the late Senator Lindsey Graham. The South Carolina Republican, who served in Congress for over three decades, died earlier this month at age 71. Tuesday marked the start of two days of memorial events dedicated to his life and career.
President Trump offered remarks during the service, reflecting on his complex relationship with Graham. While the two men were rivals for the GOP nomination in 2016, they later became close political allies. Trump acknowledged the history between them, recalling a moment from the campaign trail with characteristic humor before praising the senator’s dedication to his work. The President noted that Graham’s commitment to foreign policy and his ability to navigate legislative hurdles left a significant mark on the Senate.
Attendees included Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. These guests highlighted Graham’s interventionist approach to foreign policy and his long-standing work with international partners. During the ceremony, Emillie Boggs Roberts delivered a tribute focusing on Graham’s role as a family man, specifically his commitment to his sister Darline Graham after the death of their parents.
Earlier in the day, a formal tribute took place at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other colleagues described Graham as a legislative mainstay who balanced a serious approach to his duties with a legendary sense of humor. His former colleagues remembered him for his influence on judicial confirmations and his vocal support for global causes.
Graham’s remains will travel to South Carolina on Wednesday for a final service at the First Baptist Church in Columbia. His sister, Darline Graham Nordone, has been appointed to serve the remainder of his Senate term.