US Senate Holds Memorial for Senator Lindsey Graham Ahead of Public Funeral

Two and a half weeks after his sudden death, Senator Lindsey Graham's memorial service took place on Tuesday in Washington, D.C., with a special ceremony held in the Senate chamber. Family members attended, including his sister Darline, who was appointed to fill his Senate seat until the midterm elections in November. Graham's coffin was carried into the Capitol by a U.S. Air Force rescue team, honoring his military service in the Air Force.

Vice President and Senate President J.D. Vance delivered a eulogy, highlighting Graham's warmth and passion for debate. Vance said, "Lindsey Graham loved people from all walks of life. He didn't have everything handed to him, which made him interested in everyone." He described Graham as a friendly politician who stood shoulder to shoulder with Senate colleagues and engaged fiercely with opponents.

Following the Capitol ceremony, Graham's coffin was moved to the Washington National Cathedral for the main funeral service scheduled for 9 p.m. Israel time. Former President Donald Trump will speak at the event, which will also be attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Afterward, Graham's body will be transported to his home state of South Carolina, where another memorial will be held in Columbia. He will be buried in Pickens County, the area he represented in Congress for many years.