Former President Donald Trump eulogized the late Senator Lindsey Graham, calling him a "legend" with a "good and mighty heart" during a memorial service held at the Washington National Cathedral.
Trump recounted his own contentious start with Graham during the 2016 Republican presidential primary, where he famously shared the senator's personal phone number. He noted that despite this incident, their relationship evolved into a strong friendship that lasted for years.
"He was a man who gave America the full measure of his good and mighty heart," Trump said of Graham, who served more than two decades in the Senate representing South Carolina. "Until that heart itself just gave out."
Graham's death was announced on July 12. His office later stated the cause of death was aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
The memorial service drew a significant number of high-profile attendees, including current and former administration officials, foreign leaders, and members of the Supreme Court. Among those present were Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Former Vice President Mike Pence and other Trump administration officials also attended.
Earlier tributes to Graham took place in the Senate Rotunda, where his former colleagues remembered his career. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Vice President J.D. Vance spoke at the ceremony, sharing personal anecdotes and reflecting on Graham's ability to connect with people across the political spectrum.
"I remember Lindsey Graham as a man who loved people, and because he loved people, he was willing to reason with them, to respect them, and ultimately, to persuade them," Vance said.
Lawmakers and officials gathered to honor Graham's life and service, reflecting on his impact on South Carolina and his role in the U.S. Senate.
