[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S4100]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
Remembering Lindsey Graham
Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. President, America lost a fearless patriot in our
friend Lindsey Graham. He devoted his life to serving the people of
South Carolina and this Nation. He never shied away from a difficult
fight, and he always stuck to his principles.
It has been so moving to see all the tributes to his life and his
legacy pour in from each side of the aisle. It speaks to who he was as
a leader, statesman, and a public servant. He believed in robust,
respectful bipartisan debate, and he knew that, in Washington, you can
only solve problems by building a big tent and inviting people to join
you. He did it time and again, across more than three decades in public
office, working to protect our national security, strengthen our
military, secure our border, protect kids online, and save our
elections.
I had the honor of serving alongside him on the Judiciary Committee,
including during his time as both chair and ranking member. He knew
that peace and prosperity are only possible under the rule of law, and
he fought to defend the rule of law.
Just a few months ago, Lindsey and I filed the 287(g) Expansion Act
to encourage State and local law enforcement to partner with ICE and
accomplish President Trump's goal of deporting criminal illegal aliens
and keeping our communities safe.
Last month, we also introduced the Election Security Partnership Act
to get more States to submit their voter rolls to DHS through the SAVE
Program and secure our elections. On that issue, Lindsey was a champion
of the SAVE America Act to ensure that only American citizens vote in
American elections. The Senate should put election integrity measures
on the floor for a vote and honor his legacy. That is exactly what he
would encourage us to do.
It was so moving to see his sister Darline sworn into office
yesterday to complete his term. My prayers are with her and with his
family, friends, staff, and all who loved him. May he rest in peace.