Lindsey Graham, the son of South Carolina pool hall owners, rose to become a fixture on the global stage and one of the most prominent advocates of American military might in the U.S. Senate. Graham, a former military lawyer who reached the rank of colonel in the Air Force, was known for his Southern drawl, political flexibility, and reliably hawkish stance on foreign policy.
Early Life and Career
Graham was born to Millie and Florence James Graham of Central, South Carolina, on July 19, 1955. The couple owned a restaurant, bar, and pool hall in the town. Graham, his parents, and younger sister all lived in one room in the back of the building. After earning his law degree, Graham served as a judge advocate general in the Air Force, starting as a defense attorney for accused troops and eventually rising to the Air Force’s chief prosecutor in Europe.
Graham had a lead role in Bill Clinton’s impeachment and later became a key player in judicial appointments, especially to the U.S. Supreme Court. In 2018, when Trump’s nominee, Brett Kavanaugh, faced accusations of sexual misconduct, Graham helped turn the tide with an impassioned defense of the federal judge.
Legacy
Graham’s death brought encomiums from world leaders and, closer to home, Republicans and Democrats alike, a mark of his influence and his ability to befriend colleagues of different political persuasions. Lawmakers expressed their shock and remembered his good humor, kindness, and zest for the political arena.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
