Congressional tribute to Sen. Lindsey Graham in Capitol

The late Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina was honored with a congressional tribute in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, as lawmakers, family, and dignitaries gathered to pay their final respects. The 71-year-old senator, who died unexpectedly on July 11 after suffering an aortic tear, was remembered as a tenacious and humorous public servant who served for more than two decades in the Senate.

An Armed Forces Body Bearer Team carried Graham's flag-draped casket into the Rotunda, where it rested on the historic Lincoln catafalque. The ceremony, while not an official lying in state, drew a bipartisan gathering of political leaders. Attendees included Vice President JD Vance, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, members of President Donald Trump's cabinet, and numerous senators from both parties. Graham's sister and appointed successor, Senator Darline Graham, was present with other family members in the front row.

In their remarks, speakers highlighted Graham's distinctive personality and political convictions. Vice President Vance recalled Graham's engaging nature, describing how he treated everyone with equal...