Tributes for Sen. Lindsey Graham

Washington is set to honor Senator Lindsey Graham, a significant figure in American politics, who passed away at 71. The tributes extend over Tuesday and Wednesday, with events in Washington and Graham’s home state of South Carolina.

Honors in Washington

Tuesday morning begins with Graham’s casket being carried by an armed forces body bearer team. This honors his service as an Air Force judge advocate general, retiring as a colonel in 2015. Although Graham will not lie in state, he will be recognized with a ceremony in the Capitol’s rotunda. The ceremony, though private, will be livestreamed. A U.S. Capitol Police memorial guard will replace the military honor guard as a nod to Graham’s Senate service.

“From the military to state politics to decades of representing South Carolinians in Congress, Lindsey dedicated his life to giving back through public service,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune.

Funeral Service at Washington National Cathedral

After the Capitol ceremony, the casket will move to the Washington National Cathedral. The service, attended by notable figures, includes remarks from Donald Trump, who shared a close relationship with Graham. International attendees include Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump is expected to meet with both leaders separately on Tuesday.

Succession and Political Transition

In response to Graham’s passing, South Carolina’s Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham’s sister, Darline, to serve the remainder of his Senate term. She announced her candidacy for a full term and faces an upcoming primary.

Final Tributes in South Carolina

On Wednesday, the public can pay respects along a procession route at the South Carolina State House. The procession will feature a military caisson and a law enforcement presentation. An F-16 flyover will follow. The procession will conclude at the First Baptist Church of Columbia for a funeral service, with a private family burial in Pickens County.

Graham’s Legacy

Senator Lindsey Graham, who chaired the Senate Budget Committee, died on July 11 from aortic dissection linked to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. At the time of his passing, Graham had recently returned from Ukraine, where he met with President Zelenskyy. Further test results on his cause of death are pending.