Florida political leaders from both chambers of Congress, including the state's two U.S. senators, are mourning the death of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham following reports that emerged on Sunday. Tributes have poured in for the South Carolina Republican, with officials praising his decades of military service, extensive work on national security issues, and bipartisan efforts regarding immigration reform.
Reactions from Florida's Senate Delegation
U.S. Sen. Rick Scott described Graham as "a good friend and a dedicated public servant." In a statement released Sunday, Scott noted that he and his wife, Anne, were "shocked and heartbroken" by the news of Graham's passing. Scott highlighted Graham’s career dedication to America's national defense and freedom around the world through his time in the Air Force and Congress.
Florida's other Republican senator, Ashley Moody, also honored her colleague, describing him as a uniquely gifted communicator and lawmaker. "My family and I mourn the sudden passing of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham," Moody said. She noted that Graham possessed an uncanny ability to change the atmosphere in any room through wit, humor, well-placed arguments, reason, or impassioned appeals.
South Florida Lawmakers Reflect on Legislative Impact
Lawmakers from South Florida also took time to reflect on Graham's influence. U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez stated that Graham leaves behind "a legacy of dedicated public service, a commitment to national security, and an unwavering fight for freedom." Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar highlighted Graham’s years-long work on immigration reform.
Salazar noted that Graham played a key role in discussions surrounding bipartisan immigration proposals, including the DIGNITY Act of 2025. She added that few people in Washington fought longer or harder to fix the broken immigration system than Graham did, expressing gratitude for his counsel and commitment to finding legislative solutions, more details at France24.
Broader Tributes from State Officials
Graham’s legacy was further honored by Republican Congressman Byron Donalds, who is currently running for Florida governor. Donalds said that Graham dedicated his life to serving the country both in the U.S. Air Force and in Congress, describing him as an incredibly effective lawmaker who led with courage and deep conviction.
Additionally, Miami-Dade's tax collector honored Sen. Lindsey Graham by praising his steadfast support for freedom, democracy, and human rights. The tribute specifically highlighted Graham’s outspoken stance against Cuba's communist dictatorship. Sharing the message in both English and Spanish, officials thanked Graham for leadership that gave hope to millions dreaming of a free Cuba.
Graham served in the U.S. Senate for more than two decades after representing South Carolina in the U.S. House. Throughout his career, he became one of the Senate's most influential voices on national security and foreign policy. His death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from lawmakers across the country.
