Trump orders flags at half-mast for Senator Lindsey Graham

President Donald Trump ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-mast until Saturday evening in honor of Senator Lindsey Graham, who died on July 11 after a brief illness. Trump described Graham as a "dear friend" and a "true American patriot" in posts on Truth Social, praising his service to the nation and South Carolina.

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In honor of the remarkable life and achievements of Senator Lindsey Graham, a dear friend of mine and a truly great man who achieved so much for our country and his beloved home state of South Carolina, I am ordering all American flags throughout the United States lowered to half-mast until Saturday evening at 6 P.M. GOD BLESS YOU, LINDSEY!

Graham's office confirmed his death on Sunday, stating he passed away from a "brief and sudden illness." The sudden death prompted tributes from global leaders who lauded Graham's commitment to South Carolina, transatlantic security, and the U.S.-Israel alliance.

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Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working and was a true American patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed.

Vice President JD Vance reflected on Graham's career, sharing an anecdote about a past disagreement over a Ukraine funding bill followed by Graham's behind-the-scenes support for Vance's rail legislation. Vance noted Graham's dedication to fighting for his beliefs and supporting Republican candidates, stating, "He loved the game of politics."

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On the evening of Saturday, July 11, US Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness. Senator Graham's family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bess also contributed to the tributes, though his specific remarks were not detailed in the provided text.

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Early in my Senate tenure, I remember getting into a shouting match with Lindsey about a Ukraine funding bill at lunch and then learning the very next day that he was pushing rail legislation I really cared about behind the scenes. That was Lindsey Graham. He fought like hell for the things he believed in, and he was just as willing to go to bat for you when it counted.