A solemn farewell ceremony for Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who passed away on July 11 at the age of 71, took place at the National Cathedral in Washington. The centerpiece of the ceremony was a speech by US President Donald Trump, who dedicated an emotional address to his late colleague, recalling their journey from rivals to close friends.
From rivalry to close friendship
Donald Trump called Graham a "true American original" and a "beloved friend," noting his status as one of the most outstanding legislators in the country's history. The President reminded the audience that their relationship began with sharp political rivalry during the 2016 presidential campaign. However, over time, this competition evolved into a deep bond. According to Trump, they often played golf together, and Graham possessed a rare talent for finding common ground with people regardless of their political views.
Trump emphasized that the Senator grew up in a rural town in South Carolina but grew into a force that the entire world had to reckon with. "For more than 30 years, nothing significant happened in this capital without Lindsey Graham's knowledge," the White House chief stated.
"Warlike" patriot
Special attention in Trump's speech was paid to the late man's political convictions. The President described Graham as a man with "unwavering faith in the righteousness of American power and prayer." He noted the Senator's warlike character, uttering the famous phrase: "Let me tell you, he never saw a war he didn't like... but he wanted it for the good of our country".
Trump emphasized that Graham believed in a strong America and gave it the full measure of his "good and powerful heart" until it was exhausted.
Legacy and international presence
Lindsey Graham is known as one of the harshest critics of Russia in the US Congress. He was one of the authors of the bill on sanctions against Moscow, providing for the imposition of 500 percent tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy carriers. After the Senator's death, this bill was named after him.
The farewell ceremony gathered top US officials and foreign leaders at the Washington Cathedral. Vice President JD Vance and Senate Republican Leader John Thune also gave speeches. Among the guests of honor were Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
