Lindsey Graham Dies: Political Survivor of Trump’s Era
70‑year‑old South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham dies after a career that spanned the dramatic rise of Donald Trump. Graham, a stalwart of the Republican Party, was renowned for his hawkish foreign policy, support for Israel and calls for regime change in Iran.
After first entering the U.S. Senate in 2002, Graham quickly became a close ally of Senator John McCain, whose reputation for political independence helped shape Graham’s early legacy. When Graham launched a bid for the presidency in 2015, his messaging focused on easing partisan tensions and working with opponents, famously joking that he would open a “bar in the White House” if elected.
Graham’s relationship with Trump was complex. He called the former president a “jackass” when Trump began to criticize McCain and publicly opposed him by voting for independent candidate Evan McMullin in the 2016 election. Graham’s disagreement intensified when Trump read his phone number at a rally, prompting a “mobile phone‑bashing” video in which Graham destroyed a stack of phones.
After Trump secured the presidency, Graham shifted his stance. He became a trusted ally, openly condemned allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, and helped ensure Kavanaugh’s confirmation by a razor‑thin margin. He also had a hand in the 2021 Senate trial, voting to acquit Trump of impeachment charges.
When the storming of the U.S. Capitol on 6 January 2021 erupted, Graham stepped back from his friendship with Trump, stating, “I hate it to end this way… count me out. Enough is enough.” Yet later he continued to support Trump’s legislative agenda and defend his 2024 presidential bid.
Graham’s death creates an opening in the Senate that will have political repercussions. Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a replacement for the remainder of the year, and the Republican Party will hold a primary to choose a candidate for the November election. His absence may require South Carolina Republicans to expend additional resources to defend an open seat, especially if Trump’s disapproval ratings stay high.
Despite the controversies, Graham’s legacy is reflected in his ability to maintain relationships across party lines. Former Democratic senators, including Adam Schiff and Elizabeth Warren, issued condolences, while Trump noted, “He could work it out with any Democrat.”
