Senate Majority Leader John Thune has expressed doubt that any single individual can fully replicate the foreign policy influence of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, describing him as a "really effective voice" on critical international issues.
Thune, R-SD, stated that while the Republican Senate conference possesses numerous members knowledgeable about foreign policy, Graham held a unique position due to his capacity, experience, and knowledge base. "I don’t know if it’s any one person in particular," Thune told The Post. "I think there’s going to be an opportunity for somebody to step into that. I’m not sure exactly who that is at this point."
Among those who could emerge as prominent voices on foreign policy within the Senate GOP, Thune mentioned Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker, R-Miss.
Senator Graham died unexpectedly late Saturday evening due to heart issues. Prior to his death, he had been actively advocating for the normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, a sanctions package targeting Russia, and a more assertive stance toward Iran.
On Tuesday, Darline Graham Nordone, Senator Graham's sister, was sworn in to serve in his place on an interim basis. Thune expressed optimism about her role, stating, "I think she is very interested in continuing Lindsey’s work and her appointment, I think, is a great tribute to his legacy. She is very interested in continuing the things that were priorities for him. I think it’s going to be really good."
Thune also paid a public tribute to Graham on the Senate floor, becoming visibly emotional. He recalled Graham's "incredible wit" and quick thinking. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also joined the Senate GOP Conference lunch on Tuesday to share memories of Graham with his former colleagues.
Discussions are underway regarding the possibility of renaming the sanctions package against countries purchasing Russian oil in Graham's honor. Thune believes this would be a fitting tribute, stating, "If and when this happens, it’ll be largely a result of his determination and just resilience and relentless advocating on behalf of that bill. He’s been working on this for a long time, and you know it will be very fitting to have his name on it."
Former President Donald Trump has indicated openness to the sanctions package and suggested that Republicans might include Iran and Hezbollah in its scope. Thune confirmed conversations with Trump regarding the package and noted that the bill's sponsors are exploring its potential impact on vote counts. "We’re testing that. I had a conversation with the president. I think the sponsors of the bill on both sides are sort of trying to figure that out. But that’s something I know the president is interested in, and we’ll just see how it affects the vote count."