Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) said the U.S. lost a true statesman following the death of fellow South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC).
The loss of a long-serving senator from South Carolina marks the end of a significant legislative era for the state and the Republican party.
Speaking during an interview on ABC News’ “This Week” this Sunday, Scott said he reflected on the personal and professional impact of the loss. He described the void left by Graham's absence in the Senate and the broader political landscape.
"America lost a true statesman, but I lost a friend," Scott said [1].
Graham died Saturday evening [4] at the age of 71 [4]. His career in the U.S. Congress spanned nearly 32 years [4], during which he became a prominent voice in foreign policy and judicial nominations.
Scott said the rarity of Graham's approach to public service was notable. He said that the country does not have many such figures left in current government [2]. The sentiment was echoed across multiple news platforms, including “Face the Nation," as colleagues began to process the news of Graham's death.
"America certainly has lost a statesman," Scott said [3].
Throughout his tenure, Graham maintained a high profile in the Senate, often operating at the center of national political debates. Scott's comments highlight a personal bond that existed alongside their shared political affiliation and representation of the same state. The two senators worked together for years to navigate the interests of South Carolina in Washington, a partnership that Scott said was both professional and deeply personal.
“"America lost a true statesman, but I lost a friend."”
The death of Sen. Lindsey Graham leaves a significant vacancy in the South Carolina delegation and removes one of the most recognizable figures of the Republican establishment. Given Graham's nearly three decades of seniority, his absence will likely shift the internal dynamics of the Senate Judiciary Committee and the GOP's approach to foreign relations.
