Justice Kagan Pays Tribute to Late Senator Lindsey Graham

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Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan began her testimony before the House Appropriations Committee by expressing her condolences for the passing of Sen. Lindsey Graham of Kentucky. Graham died on Saturday from a ruptured aorta.

“I wish to express the entire court’s condolences to his sister, the rest of his family, his many friends, and colleagues here in the House, in the Senate, and elsewhere on behalf of the entire court,” Kagan stated.

Kagan spent much of her tribute recalling Graham’s role in her 2010 confirmation. Notably, he was one of only five Senate Republicans who supported her nomination by then-President Barack Obama. At that time, Graham’s bipartisan support was unusual and has since become more notable as Supreme Court confirmation votes have grown more polarized.

“Not many Republicans vote for the nominees chosen by a Democratic president, and not many Democrats do the same for a Republican president,” remarked Kagan. “One would not expect such a cross-party vote, especially from someone from a deep red or blue state. Yet, Senator Graham voted for me.”

Kagan remembered Graham as a vivid person, recalling a lengthy conversation they had in his office before her hearing, where he took the time to get to know her personally. Although she did not know him well, she acknowledged that Graham would be remembered for his sense of humor.

“I think Al Franken said he was the funniest man in the Senate, but during the hearing, Senator Graham somehow made me look funny, which is quite challenging,” Kagan shared. She recounted how a lighthearted exchange with Graham made a significant impact on her confirmation process.

Kagan expressed gratitude for Graham’s approach to her nomination, praising his seriousness and respect throughout the confirmation process.

Graham, who served 23 years in the Senate and eight years in the House, passed away at the age of 71. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham’s sister, Darline Graham, to complete his term, which ends in January 2027.