Why Lindsey Graham’s funeral arrangements are facing unexpected delays

WASHINGTON, DC: Funeral arrangements for the late Sen Lindsey Graham have become more complicated than expected, with the number of world leaders hoping to attend creating major scheduling challenges.

Graham, a close ally of President Donald Trump often referred to as the "Trump Whisperer," died on Saturday, July 11, after suffering an aortic tear.

Since his death, tributes have poured in from political leaders across the United States and around the world, highlighting the influence he built during his decades in public office. Now, that international interest is affecting plans for his final farewell.

Tim Scott explains why Lindsey Graham's funeral is taking longer to organize

Speaking at the National Republican Senatorial Committee on Wednesday, South Carolina Sen Tim Scott said the overwhelming interest from global leaders has complicated efforts to finalize funeral arrangements.

"The funeral arrangements have been complicated by the fact that so many global leaders would like to attend," he told reporters. 

Scott explained that organizers are trying to coordinate the availability of Washington National Cathedral while also accommodating the schedules of international dignitaries and senior American political figures.

"The process of figuring out when the National Cathedral would be made available at the exact same time that the global leaders who want to come and all the other national leaders who will be there has made it a little more difficult," he shared, adding that a funeral taking place this week was an "impossibility."

Scott also said he had spoken with Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone, who indicated services could potentially take place next week, although planning may stretch into the following week.

Washington and South Carolina services expected

While a final date has not been announced, Scott said a service in Washington, DC, is expected to be held first, followed by a second service in South Carolina.

According to him, the South Carolina service would likely take place "within a day but no more than two days" after the Washington ceremony.

Scott also noted that an offer had reportedly been made for Graham to lie in state at the US Capitol before the funeral.

Trump, Netanyahu and Zelensky pay tribute to Lindsey Graham

The delay comes as leaders around the world continue to honor Graham's legacy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed that his planned US trip had been delayed because Graham's funeral service had been pushed back.

Paying tribute to the senator, Netanyahu said, "Israel has lost one of its greatest friends. America has lost a great patriot. I have lost a beloved friend."

Trump described Graham as "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known," while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised his efforts to help "bring an end to Russia's war against Ukraine."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also paid tribute, saying Graham "was here with our people when it was most needed."

Meanwhile, South Carolina Gov Henry McMaster has appointed Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone, to temporarily fill the Senate seat until the current term expires in January.