Washington and South Carolina Gather to Honor Late Senator Lindsey Graham Across Two-Day Tributes
Dozens of dignitaries, including President Trump and South Carolina leaders, have gathered across Washington and South Carolina for a two-day series of tributes honoring the political and policy legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham, who passed away this month.
Capitol Rotunda Memorial Services Draw Bipartisan Attendance
Services commenced at 10 a.m. in the Capitol Rotunda, featuring prayers from House and Senate chaplains, wreath-laying ceremonies by political leaders at the hearse, and attendance by senators from both political parties. Representative Sheri Biggs praised the late senator for spending his life standing for something larger than himself. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Vice President JD Vance delivered prominent remarks, with Thune offering an emotional tribute to his close friend and Vance highlighting Mr. Graham’s legislative passion and deal-making willingness.
Washington National Cathedral Memorial Service and Speakers
A memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Washington National Cathedral, featuring staff members acting as honorary pallbearers. President Trump, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, and President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine are slated to attend alongside congressional and South Carolina leaders. Tributes will be delivered by President Trump, Fox News host Sean Hannity, and the senator’s niece, Emillie Boggs Roberts, while readings will be presented by Family Research Council President Tony Perkins, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser, and evangelical minister the Rev. Franklin Graham.
Procession, Church Service, and Private Burial in South Carolina
On Wednesday, the casket will return to South Carolina for a 10:45 a.m. procession stop at the State House where Mr. Graham once served, accompanied by a law enforcement presentation and an 11 a.m. flyover from McEntire Joint National Guard Base. A noon service will follow at the First Baptist Church of Columbia, attended by Gov. Henry McMaster and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette. The two days of events will conclude in Pickens County with a private family burial ceremony.
