US President Donald Trump reflected on his changing relationship with late Sen Lindsey Graham, describing how the two went from political rivals during the 2016 Republican primary to close allies and friends.
Event Context
Speaking on Fox & Friends, Trump paid tribute to Graham following the senator’s death, saying their relationship had evolved significantly over the years.
“He was a great guy. He was a great politician, actually… we started a little bit rough, but then it got closer and closer. It really ended up being a great friendship, and it’s very hard. He really became like a member of the family in a sense,” Trump said.
From rivals to allies
Trump and Graham’s relationship began on hostile terms during the 2016 presidential campaign, when both were prominent Republican figures with sharply different views.
The two later repaired their relationship, bonding over politics, humor and frequent golf games. Graham eventually became one of Trump’s most visible allies in Congress, regularly defending the president and advising him on foreign policy issues.
Match Outlook
Graham, a South Carolina Republican, died on July 11 at the age of 71 from an aortic dissection. His funeral service is being held at the Washington National Cathedral, where Trump is expected to deliver remarks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are also expected to attend the ceremony.
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According to the Associated Press, Graham was one of Trump’s strongest critics during the primary race. He called Trump’s candidacy unacceptable and opposed his campaign after Trump’s comments about Graham’s friend, the late Sen John McCain.
