President Trump, SC leaders react to passing of Lindsey Graham

Columbia, S.C. (WOLO)– Leaders both nationally and in South Carolina are reacting to the death of SC Sen. Lindsey Graham.

Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!! DETAILS AND ARRANGEMENTS TO FOLLOW. So sad! President DONALD J. TRUMP

“Peggy and I-and our children-are devastated. Lindsey Graham is irreplaceable. The fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America-and a loyal steadfast friend. We grieve with Darline, his family and his devoted staff. May God hold him gently in the palm of his hand. We shall not see  his likes again.”

Gov. Henry McMaster

(R) SC

“South Carolina lost a statesman and I’ve lost a friend. My prayers are with his sister and the rest of his family. From his humble beginnings to the Senate floor, Lindsey always led with faith, family, and South Carolina first. Lindsey remained committed to public service and doing what he loved. He always introduced levity and brought wit to the most challenging moments. Lindsey will be missed.”

Sen. Tim Scott

(R) SC

“The unexpected loss of Senator Lindsey Graham is difficult to comprehend. South Carolina has lost an extraordinary public servant, and our nation has lost a consequential leader. We grieve alongside his sister, his devoted staff, and all who knew and loved him, and we pray that God grants them comfort and peace.

“I once asked Lindsey what he considered his greatest accomplishment. His answer surprised me. He didn’t point to Supreme Court confirmations, national security victories, or the many defining moments that made headlines. Instead, he talked about the small victories—the constituent whose problem was solved, the small town that received long-overdue help, the quiet successes that never made the evening news. He believed those moments added up to a lifetime of meaningful service.

“That perspective defined him. Whether fighting for South Carolina’s military communities, championing our state, or simply making sure someone back home got the help they needed, Lindsey never lost sight of the people he represented.

“His legacy will be measured not only by history’s biggest moments, but by the countless lives he touched—one person, one family, and one community at a time. South Carolina is better because he served.”

S.C. Rep. Russell Ott

(R) SC 7th Dist.

“My family and I are heartbroken by the news of our dear friend, Senator Lindsey Graham’s sudden and unexpected passing. For decades, Lindsey dedicated his life to serving the people of South Carolina with unwavering conviction. He fought tirelessly for our state, our military, and our nation, always guided by his deep love for this country and the values and freedoms he cherished. Beyond his service, we will remember Lindsey for his friendship, his loyalty, and his unwavering commitment to the people he loved. Today, we join our fellow South Carolinians and Americans in praying for Lindsey’s family, his team, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We pray that God will surround them with His peace and comfort in the difficult days ahead, and that they will find strength in the extraordinary legacy Lindsey leaves behind. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.”

Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette

(R) SC

“South Carolina lost a giant last night. For more than three decades, Lindsey Graham gave everything he had to this state and this country, from the Air Force to the United States Senate. We did not always agree, but no one ever questioned his love for South Carolina or the fight he brought to every room he walked into. Please join me in praying for his family and for all who called him a friend. Rest easy, Senator.”

U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace

(R) SC

“Deeply saddened by the news of the passing of United States Senator Lindsey Graham. Lindsey was a true defender of freedom and the values that make our world safer. He visited Ukraine ten times during the years of Russia’s full-scale invasion and was here with our people when it was most needed. We remained in constant dialogue, and I will miss our conversations. We met twice in just the past week. A staunch advocate for bipartisan and bicameral support for Ukraine, in recent weeks, he had been working on important initiatives that could help bring peace closer, including stronger sanctions against Russia. We will always be especially grateful for the recognition of our people and words of admiration for the courage of Ukraine’s defenders. America and the world have lost a determined leader. Our condolences go out to Lindsey’s family, loved ones, and everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.”

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

President, Ukraine

“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.”

Sen. John Thune

(R) U.S. Senate Majority Leader

“I’m shocked and saddened by the passing of my friend and colleague Senator Lindsey Graham. Lindsey was a lifelong public servant, a tireless champion for South Carolina, and an outspoken advocate for America’s role in protecting freedom throughout the world. Susan and I are praying for Lindsey’s family and staff during this incredibly difficult time.”

Sen. Thom Tillis

(R) NC

“Today, Jennifer and I join all South Carolinians in mourning the passing of my friend, Senator Lindsey Graham. For more than three decades, Lindsey dedicated his life to serving South Carolina and our nation. From his service in the United States Air Force to the U.S. House and the United States Senate, he never stopped fighting for the people he was elected to represent. His love for South Carolina was unmistakable, and he carried our state’s values with him everywhere he went. I’ve been blessed to know Lindsey for many years. Behind the tough, relentless advocate the public saw was someone with an incredible sense of humor and an infectious laugh. He could fill a room with stories, make you laugh when you needed it most, and somehow find the right joke even in the middle of the most serious conversations. That wit was matched by an unwavering loyalty to his friends and a generosity that many people never saw. Lindsey lived a remarkable life of service, but what I’ll remember most is the friend I had the privilege to know. His counsel, his encouragement, and the countless conversations we shared over the years are memories I will always treasure. Jennifer and I are praying for Lindsey’s sister, Darline, his family, his many close friends, and the dedicated members of his staff who became like family throughout his years of service. We pray that God surrounds them with His peace, comfort, and strength in the difficult days ahead. Rest in peace, my friend. Thank you for your lifetime of faithful service to South Carolina and the United States of America. You left an indelible mark on our state, and your legacy will endure for generations to come.”

Attorney General Alan Wilson

(R) SC

“There are no words to describe Lindsey Graham, my friend of more than three decades. There are no words to describe his impact on the foreign and domestic policy of the United States. Lindsey served his beloved country in uniform and in the House and Senate. He stood solidly for freedom and strength and he fought for liberty across the globe. Lindsey Graham can be succeeded in office but he cannot be replaced.”

Sen. Roger Wicker

(R) MS