Sen. Tim Scott fondly recalled his colleague, the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, describing him as a "patriot," a "statesman," and a "dear friend." Scott, a fellow South Carolinian, emphasized Graham's lifelong devotion to service, beginning with his military tenure and extending through his time in the U.S. Senate.
Scott shared that Graham, who died at 71, came from humble beginnings, overcoming early family tragedy. After the deaths of his parents within 15 months of each other when Graham was in his early 20s, he raised his younger sister and later adopted her to ensure she could receive his medical benefits. This early display of duty and sacrifice, Scott noted, foreshadowed Graham's commitment to public service.
Graham's statesmanship, according to Scott, was characterized by an unwavering commitment to the people of South Carolina. "Lindsey knew that we work for our bosses: the people of South Carolina. We should serve them, not lead them," Scott stated. This approach, Scott added, fueled Graham's drive to champion American safety and security, believing he had a divine responsibility to make a difference.
Scott also highlighted Graham's military service, which included time in the Air Force, South Carolina Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve. This service, Scott remarked, exemplified true patriotism and a deep love for America, a country Graham felt uniquely offered opportunities like his own.
Reflecting on their personal relationship, Scott recounted Graham's warmth and willingness to welcome him into the South Carolina Senate family. Despite their different paths, Scott said Graham understood the evolving political landscape in South Carolina and offered a trusted friendship.
Scott recalled Graham's characteristic humor and wit, recounting an instance where Graham playfully defied expectations to attend Scott's early morning prayer breakfast. This anecdote, Scott suggested, illustrated Graham's tendency to prioritize others and his commitment to showing up, even when it was inconvenient.
"South Carolina will never fill the hole in our state’s heart that is left by the passing of my dear friend, Lindsey Graham, but we will carry his legacy and his commitment to protecting every American forward," Scott concluded. "America will never forget his service, his sacrifice, and his love for our country. I will miss my friend greatly, but I know he cemented his legacy in the American story."