The late Sen. Lindsey Graham was honored at the U.S. Capitol as his flag-draped casket was carried into the Capitol Rotunda by an Armed Forces Body Bearer Team, recognizing his decades of service in the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserve. A U.S. Capitol Police memorial guard then stood watch as Graham lay in state during a private ceremony, where Vice President JD Vance was among those scheduled to deliver remarks.
Graham, a South Carolina Republican, died on July 11 at the age of 71 from an aortic dissection. During more than 30 years in Congress, following earlier service in the House of Representatives and the South Carolina Legislature, he became one of the Senate’s leading voices on foreign policy. He was widely recognized for supporting close U.S. partnerships with allies, including Israel and Ukraine, and chaired the Senate Budget Committee at the time of his death.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune praised Graham’s legacy, describing him as not only a respected colleague but also a valued friend to many lawmakers across party lines.
A funeral service is scheduled at Washington National Cathedral, where President Donald Trump is expected to deliver a tribute. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are also expected to attend. Following the Washington ceremonies, Graham’s remains will be returned to South Carolina for additional public memorial events and a private burial, concluding a final tribute to his distinguished career in military service and public office.
