South Dakota US Senators John Thune and Mike Rounds have reacted to the passing of their colleague South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham after a brief and sudden illness at the age of 71.
Senator Thune released the following statement:
My heart is heavy this morning to learn of the passing of my friend and colleague, Senator Lindsey Graham.
Lindsey’s long and dedicated service in the Air Force and in Congress carried him to far-flung regions of the world. He was a strong advocate for the United States and a strong ally to freedom-loving countries across the globe. He believed in the might of America to achieve good in the world and dedicated his life to advancing that cause.
As South Carolina’s senior senator, Lindsey fought passionately for the Palmetto State. He was a trusted adviser and colleague to me and many others, and numerous presidents and heads of state have relied on his counsel. His influence on the federal judiciary, our national defense, and his beloved South Carolina will be felt for generations.
Kimberley and I pray for Lindsey’s friends and family, and we send our heartfelt condolences during this most difficult time.
Senator Rounds released the following statement:
Saddened by the sudden loss of my friend Lindsey Graham. He was a public servant who cared deeply for South Carolina and the people he served. Lindsey was also a foreign policy hawk and a friend to our allies around the world. He had a significant role in navigating some of the most serious conflicts of our time. He shepherded several conservative justices through the Judiciary committee as chairman. More recently, his work as Budget chairman paved the way for our reconciliation packages over the past couple of years. Lindsey’s work in the Senate was influential and will be felt by Americans for decades to come.
While he was a statesman, I’ll remember Lindsey as a friend. Personally, he was funny, thoughtful and headstrong. Throughout it all, he never lost his wit. I’ll always remember that about him. America lost a good public servant, and I lost a good friend. I’ll continue to pray for Lindsey’s family and all who knew and loved him as we grieve this loss.
