The flag-laden casket of Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., a longtime force on Capitol Hill who died this month at 71, was placed in the Capitol Rotunda on Tuesday morning for funeral services featuring Vice President JD Vance and other prominent figures.

Vance and Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., the majority leader, were among the speakers. President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak later during a 2 p.m. service at Washington National Cathedral attended by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine.

On Wednesday, a procession and public funeral will be held in South Carolina, followed by a private burial.

Here’s What Else to Know:

— Other speakers: Rep. Sheri Biggs of South Carolina spoke at the morning ceremony. Remarks at the National Cathedral will also be given by Sean Hannity, a Fox News host, with readings by the Rev. Franklin Graham, an evangelical minister; Tony Perkins, president of the conservative Family Research Council; and Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America.

— From opponent to ally: After once declaring Trump a “kook” who was “unfit for office,” Graham repaired his relationship with the president after he won office and became a trusted member of his circle, reflecting the evolution of the Republican Party.

— Election battle: Graham died less than four months before he was set to appear on the ballot as a strong favorite to win a fifth term. His death set off a scramble for his seat.

— How to watch: Graham’s coffin will be carried by military service members and a memorial guard from the Capitol Police, symbolizing his service in both the Air Force and Congress. Both services Tuesday — the morning tribute at the Capitol and the afternoon service at the National Cathedral — will be streamed live.

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This article originally appeared in The New York Times.

By Chris Cameron, Peter Baker and Daniel Victor/Haiyun Jiang
c. 2026 The New York Times Company