Justice Kagan Pays Tribute to Late Senator Lindsey Graham

Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan recently began her testimony before the House Appropriations Committee by extending her sympathy following the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham, R-Ky. Graham died at 71 from a ruptured aorta. Justice Kagan expressed condolences on behalf of the entire Supreme Court to Graham’s family, friends, and colleagues.

“I wish to express the entire court’s condolences to his, his sister, the rest of his family, his many friends and colleagues here in the House, in the Senate, and elsewhere on behalf of the entire court,” Kagan said.

Kagan used most of her time to reflect on Graham’s role in her 2010 confirmation. Graham was notably one of only five Senate Republicans who supported her nomination by then-President Barack Obama. Such bipartisan support has become rare in Supreme Court confirmations, which are increasingly divided along party lines.

She noted the significance of Graham’s approval, given the political climate, saying:

“Not many Republicans vote for the nominees of somebody selected by a Democratic president, and not many Democrats do the same for someone selected by a Republican president.”

Kagan recounted her memorable interaction with Graham before her confirmation hearing, highlighting his amiable nature and sense of humor. She recalled:

“I think Al Franken said he was the funniest man in the Senate, but what I remember about that hearing was that somehow Senator Graham made me look funny, which is a harder thing entirely, by asking me what I had done on Christmas the following year.”

Kagan expressed enduring gratitude for Graham’s genuine approach to her nomination process. She appreciated his sincerity and respect throughout their interactions.

Graham served in Congress for over three decades, including 23 years in the Senate and eight in the House. Following his death, his sister, Darline Graham, was appointed by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to complete his term until January 2027.

Elaine Mallon, a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business, continues covering national politics.