News summary produced by Claude AI
Donald Trump offered a mixed tribute to South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham following the senator’s death, combining expressions of affection with pointed criticism during a Fox News interview and posts on Truth Social.
In his initial statement on Truth Social, Trump described Graham as “one of the greatest people and Senators” he had known and called him a “true American Patriot.” However, during a subsequent Fox News interview, Trump tempered his praise by characterizing Graham as someone who called him excessively, describing Graham’s golf abilities as mediocre, and noting that Graham “loved being outside” in language critics might view as dismissive.
Trump and Graham had maintained a complicated relationship spanning a decade. In 2016, before Trump’s first presidential campaign, Graham publicly criticized Trump using harsh language. After Trump’s election victory, Graham shifted his position and became a consistent supporter. Following the January 6 Capitol riot, Graham briefly expressed disapproval of Trump’s conduct but reversed course within weeks, returning to support the president.
During his Fox News remarks, Trump referenced Graham’s brief break with him after January 6, saying: “He had one bad moment” and recounting that Graham called him approximately 40 minutes after publicly distancing himself. Trump stated he was willing to overlook this episode, rating Graham “99 instead of a 100” because of it. Trump also mentioned his 2016 primary victory over Graham in South Carolina.
Throughout his remembrance, Trump continued to introduce minor criticisms alongside positive remarks, including observations about Graham’s golf game and his work ethic, suggesting Trump felt compelled to maintain a position of dominance even while commemorating the deceased senator.