Trump Nominates Cissie Graham Lynch as U.S. Ambassador for Religious Freedom
President Donald Trump has nominated Jane “Cissie” Graham Lynch for the role of U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom. Jane is the daughter of Franklin Graham, a well-known evangelical leader, and the granddaughter of the late Reverend Billy Graham.
The nomination has been sent to the Senate and aims to fill a position in the State Department that has been empty since January 2025, following the departure of Rashad Hussain. Hussain, notably, was the first Muslim American to hold this role, having been appointed by former President Joe Biden.
Previously, Trump had put forth Mark Walker, a former North Carolina Representative and pastor, for the same position, but he was not confirmed by the Senate.
If Lynch is approved by the Senate, she will act as the main advisor to the President and Secretary of State regarding international religious freedom issues.
With over ten years in various faith-based and international relief organizations, Lynch has taken on key roles at Samaritan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. In addition to her professional background, she hosts the “Fearless” podcast, where she discusses cultural, political, and faith-related topics from an evangelical viewpoint. Lynch also contributed to government advisory efforts on the President’s Faith Advisory Council during Trump’s first term.
Upon learning about her nomination, Lynch shared her gratitude on social media, expressing that it was both a great honor and privilege. She asked for prayers as she moves forward with the Senate confirmation process, committing to advocate for the religious rights of those facing persecution globally.
“President Donald Trump has asked me to serve as the U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom. I would consider it a great honor and privilege to do so. If confirmed by the Senate, please pray that I would serve with excellence and make the most of every opportunity to protect our most precious and fundamental right—and one that far too many people around the world still live without—freedom of religion,” Lynch stated on X.
Franklin Graham publicly endorsed his daughter’s nomination, highlighting her extensive overseas experience and understanding of global religious issues, which he believes make her well-suited for the role.
This ambassador-at-large position was established under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998, carrying the responsibility to include religious freedom in U.S. foreign policy and to advise on related matters. The role also grants a nonvoting, ex-officio status on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, which operates independently at the federal level.
