US President Donald Trump has paid tribute to the late Senator Lindsey Graham, drawing on Scripture as he reflected on the Republican lawmaker's Christian faith and legacy.
In a post on social media, Trump quoted James 1:12 as he remembered Graham, who died earlier this month at the age of 71 after a sudden illness.
"'Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the Crown of Life,'" Trump wrote, before adding: "For 71 years, Lindsey Graham was strong and steadfast. As a brother, a Senator, a warrior, and a patriot, he withstood every last test... and every trial."
Trump went on to express his belief that Graham was now in heaven.
"And now, he wears the Crown of Life in Heaven—reunited with his parents and reunited with his Lord. Lindsey, we love you, God Bless You, we will always be with you, and you were very, very special."
Graham, who represented South Carolina in the US Senate for more than two decades, died on 11 July. His office said he suffered a sudden illness, while the District of Columbia medical examiner later determined he died from an aortic dissection caused by arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Trump, a longtime political ally of Graham, delivered a eulogy at the senator's funeral at Washington National Cathedral, describing him as a "giant of the United States Senate" and praising his public service.
