Vice President JD Vance and Senate Majority Leader John Thune were among the political leaders who paid tribute to the late Sen. Lindsey Graham on Tuesday, recalling his sharp wit and influence.
"May God rest the soul of Senator Lindsey Graham, a true American original," Vance said during a service in the Capitol Rotunda, attended by current and former lawmakers and Graham admirers. Vance recounted a debate he had with Graham early in Vance's Senate tenure regarding funding for Ukraine. Despite their disagreement, Vance later learned that Graham had been a strong advocate behind the scenes for the railway bill that followed the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment.
Describing Graham personally, Vance noted, "it was impossible not to like him. That swashbuckling, infectious laugh, that attitude, that passion that so many others have talked about."
An emotional Thune stated, "my heart is heavy. I feel his absence every day, and I know my colleagues do as well. I look forward to the days when you make us laugh again."
Hundreds of attendees, including former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and former Sen. Pat Toomey, were present at the service. Lindsey Graham's sister, Darline Graham, was appointed to his seat by Gov. Henry McMaster.