Vance honors Lindsey Graham in Capitol Rotunda memorial
JD Vance paid tribute to late Sen. Lindsey Graham at the U.S. Capitol, calling the South Carolina Republican “impossible not to like.”
By Sal Moretti · Money Reporter
2 min read
Vice President JD Vance honored Lindsey Graham during a memorial tribute in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, CBS News reported, remembering the late South Carolina Republican as a persuasive force among senators and a colleague who was “impossible not to like.”
The tribute took place in one of Washington’s most solemn settings, with Graham being honored at the Capitol after his death. CBS News described Graham as an influential Republican lawmaker from South Carolina.
In his remarks, Vance said Graham had often been willing to support causes that mattered to him, according to CBS News. He also described Graham as someone who worked hard to bring colleagues around to his view.
What did Vance say about Lindsey Graham?
Vance’s tribute centered on Graham’s personal warmth and his reputation inside the Senate. According to CBS News, the vice president said Graham was “impossible not to like” and portrayed him as an energetic persuader among fellow lawmakers.
That description put the focus on Graham’s relationships in Congress, rather than only on his policy work. CBS News reported that Vance said Graham frequently backed his causes, suggesting the late senator played a meaningful role in helping build support for issues inside the Republican conference and beyond.
The memorial was part of a broader day of Capitol tributes for Graham. CBS News also featured coverage of Graham’s casket entering the Capitol and other remembrances from people connected to his public life.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune was also shown in CBS News coverage remembering Graham as a senator, a statesman and a friend. A Senate staffer, in separate CBS News coverage, recalled Graham’s ability to speak to people.
Graham’s career made him a prominent Republican voice from South Carolina, and the Rotunda ceremony placed his memorial inside the ceremonial heart of the U.S. Capitol. The setting underscored the official nature of the tribute, with Vance using his remarks to highlight both Graham’s political skill and his personal appeal.
CBS News reported that the vice president’s remarks were delivered during the Capitol memorial tribute. No additional details about Graham’s death were included in the report.
This story draws on original reporting from CBS News.