Trump to eulogize Lindsey Graham at Washington funeral
President Trump will speak at Lindsey Graham’s funeral in Washington, with Netanyahu and Zelenskyy expected at the cathedral service.
By Deshawn Carter · Sports Writer
3 min read
President Trump is set to deliver the eulogy at the Lindsey Graham funeral in Washington on Tuesday, CBS News reported, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expected to attend the service at Washington National Cathedral.
Graham, 71, died July 11 after what CBS News described as a brief and sudden illness. A medical examiner found that he died from an aortic dissection caused by arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, according to the report.
The South Carolina Republican served four terms in the Senate and was widely known in Washington for his close alliance with Trump and his forceful views on foreign policy. CBS News reported that Graham had recently returned from Ukraine, where he met with Zelenskyy and discussed plans for new U.S. sanctions and tariffs targeting Russia.
What is the schedule for Lindsey Graham’s funeral?
Tuesday’s events begin at the U.S. Capitol, where Graham’s remains will be brought to the Rotunda in a ceremony closed to the public, according to CBS News. An Armed Forces Body Bearer team will take part in recognition of Graham’s Air Force service, followed by a U.S. Capitol Police memorial guard marking his years in the Senate.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune announced the Capitol honor and said in a statement that it was a fitting way for Graham’s friends and colleagues to give back to him. Thune said Graham was “more than a colleague” to many in Congress and described him as a friend.
Thune also pointed to Graham’s career across military service, state politics and Congress, saying the senator had dedicated his life to public service and to representing South Carolinians.
After the Capitol ceremony, the public focus shifts to Washington National Cathedral, where funeral services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Trump and other speakers are expected to pay tribute to Graham there, CBS News reported.
Who is attending Lindsey Graham’s funeral?
Trump will deliver the eulogy, according to CBS News. Netanyahu and Zelenskyy are also expected at the cathedral service, placing two leaders central to major U.S. foreign policy debates inside the same Washington memorial for a senator known for his hawkish positions abroad.
Graham was involved in several major bipartisan agreements during his Senate career, CBS News reported, while also maintaining a prominent role in debates over Ukraine, Russia and U.S. security policy.
Memorial events continue Wednesday in South Carolina. CBS News reported that a procession is scheduled to begin around 10:45 a.m. at the South Carolina State House.
During that procession, members of the South Carolina State Guard will carry Graham’s remains. The honors are expected to include a law enforcement presentation and an F-16 flyover, before the procession ends at First Baptist Church of Columbia for another funeral service.
A private family burial will follow in Pickens, South Carolina, according to CBS News.
Sen. Darline Graham, who was appointed to complete her brother’s Senate term, thanked those involved in the memorial arrangements. In a statement reported by CBS News, she expressed gratitude to “all those who have come together to help honor and remember Lindsey.”
This story draws on original reporting from CBS News.