President Donald Trump recalled an anecdote about the late Senator Lindsey Graham asking the Dalai Lama if he could actually levitate [1].

The story highlights the personal relationship between the former president and the senator, as well as the specific brand of humor Trump associated with Graham's public persona.

Speaking during a memorial tribute ceremony, Trump said Graham approached the Dalai Lama with a blunt question [1]. According to Trump, Graham asked, "So, can you really levitate?" [1]

Trump said the interaction did not end on a positive note, noting that the Dalai Lama was not happy with the question [1]. The president used the story to illustrate what he described as Graham's fearless personality and signature sense of humor [1, 2].

While the anecdote was intended as a tribute to Graham's character, the delivery of the eulogy drew criticism from other observers. Some media reports said the rambling nature of the speech was mocked by late-night hosts [3].

The event focused on reflecting the legacy of the senator through personal stories, and shared experiences. Trump's recollection of the levitation query served as a centerpiece for his description of Graham's approach to interacting with world leaders [1, 2].

“"So, can you really levitate?"”

This incident reflects the unconventional rhetorical style Trump employs during formal tributes, blending personal humor with political legacy. By focusing on a disruptive interaction with a global spiritual figure, the narrative emphasizes a specific image of the late Senator Graham as a provocateur rather than a traditional diplomat.