The World Remembers Sen. Lindsey Graham

“His influence on the federal judiciary, our national defense, and his beloved South Carolina will be felt for generations,” Thune said.

Tim Scott, South Carolina’s other Republican senator, remembered Graham for leading with “faith, family, and South Carolina first” and for bringing “levity and wit” to challenging moments.

Rep. James Clyburn, the sole Democrat representing South Carolina in Washington, also mourned Graham.

“We maintained a relationship grounded in mutual respect, even when our political differences were significant,” Clyburn said on X. “His commitment to public service and the people he represented will remain an enduring part of his legacy.”

Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware, who spent Graham’s 71st birthday with him in Turkey during the recent NATO summit, praised him as “no better friend, no tougher adversary.”

“It’s my hope that we will take up and pass this bill in Lindsey’s memory this week when we all get back to session,” Coons said on ABC’s This Week on Sunday.