Lindsey Graham eulogised as an ‘American original’ at memorial service

Senator Lindsey Graham, the son of pool hall owners who rose to become one of his generation’s more influential US politicians at home and abroad, was being eulogised Tuesday as a “swashbuckling” public servant and “true American original” during memorial services in Washington.

Graham’s remains arrived at the US Capitol, where the Republican served for more than 30 years as an indefatigable deal maker who talked and laughed and badgered his colleagues into action. His flag-draped casket was carried inside by an armed forces team, in recognition of his military service.

Later, a funeral will be held at Washington National Cathedral with lawmakers and foreign leaders, a testament to his stature on the global stage.

“Lindsey was a towering figure,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, adding there was “no one more capable of cracking up a room”.

“I look forward to the days when you make us all laugh again,” Thune said, choking back tears.

President Donald Trump is expected to deliver remarks at the cathedral, alongside Fox News Channel’s Sean Hannity and other conservative leaders. Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky plan to be in attendance, a nod to Graham’s role as a foremost believer in the power of the US and its military to intervene in the world’s problems.