The recent passing of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina is being reported in China as a significant event for the Republican Party’s hawkish wing. Graham, who died from a sudden illness, was known for his interventionist conservatism that championed strong U.S. global presence.
Graham was a critic of China’s defense ties with Russia and blamed Beijing for the COVID-19 pandemic. He also underscored the influence of the Chinese Communist Party in U.S. politics. Graham’s vocal support for Taiwan and criticism of Chinese economic practices were well noted.
Ren Yi, a Chinese nationalist commentator, noted contrasts between Graham and Trump, stating that Graham supported a unipolar world order, maintaining U.S. hegemony globally, while Trump leaned toward a multipolar order. Yi suggested Graham’s death marked a shift away from this unipolar approach.
In China, Graham was considered a “triple hawk”, hard on Russia, Iran, and China. He was a staunch supporter of Trump’s actions against Iran and was supportive of both Israel and Ukraine. His final appearance was in Kyiv beside President Zelensky, urging China to end Russia’s military actions.
Chinese media described Graham as the GOP’s “hawk” and noted his involvement in legislation aimed at economically punishing China and its purchasers of Russian resources. Graham was criticized by Chinese netizens for his anti-China stance.
Graham supported Taiwan consistently, advocating for cross-party backing in Congress. He pushed for economic ties with Taipei, linking security assistance to better trade relations. During a visit to Taipei in 2022, he encouraged President Tsai Ing-wen to purchase Boeing jets, emphasizing economic bonds for sustained U.S. support.
After Trump’s Beijing summit, Graham called for increased support for Taiwan, warning against concessions. Taiwan leaders, including President Lai Ching-te and former leader Tsai Ing-wen, expressed sorrow at Graham’s passing, recognizing him as a friend of Taiwan.
Trump announced that U.S. flags would be lowered to half-mast to honor Graham, who chaired the Senate Budget Committee and was not sanctioned by China.
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