Senate Honors Lindsey Graham Following His Sudden Passing
WASHINGTON — The Senate convened on Monday for the first time since the unexpected passing of Senate stalwart Lindsey Graham over the weekend.
In line with tradition, the Senate paid tribute to Graham by draping a black cloth over his desk and placing a bowl of white flowers on it.
U.S. Senate Chaplain Maj. Gen. Barry Black handed over the gavel and led a prayer for Graham, asking for comfort and peace for those mourning his loss.
“It’s hard to grasp that Lindsey Graham is really gone. I’m sad knowing I won’t be able to share a laugh with him during today’s session,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune reflected during his speech on the Senate floor.
“The chamber feels empty without him, and I can tell I’m not alone in this sentiment.”
Thune went on to praise Graham’s sense of humor and his principled approach to politics, noting that he wasn’t afraid to engage in political debates.
As he concluded, Thune struggled to hold back tears, expressing, “I find comfort in thinking that he has just changed his address. Hopefully, Mr. President, we can share a laugh again one day.”
Senate Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley also shared memories of Graham, highlighting his engaging storytelling and humor.
Grassley recalled, “He had this amazing ability to tell stories, and there was always a punchline. I always looked forward to his jokes.” In honor of Graham, Grassley urged the Senate to pass bipartisan sanctions against countries buying oil from Russia, a cause Graham strongly supported.
Supporters gathered outside Graham’s office, leaving flowers and sticky notes paying their respects.
Graham passed away from heart complications on Saturday night after returning from a trip to Ukraine, prompting an outpouring of condolences from colleagues across the aisle.
The late senator was a significant figure in bipartisan legislation and was a familiar presence in the Senate for two decades.
Former President Trump remembered Graham, saying, “He had a knack for navigating issues with the Democrats. If I ever faced a real problem, he was the person I could turn to.”
Graham was also deeply involved in foreign policy, forging strong relationships with global leaders and advocating for a robust U.S. stance abroad.
His sudden death has rocked Capitol Hill, where he was known for his close ties to Trump and his influence on issues like the Middle East and Ukraine.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster is expected to announce Graham’s interim successor later today, with a special Republican primary election set for August 11, as Graham was in pursuit of re-election this term.
