ByBOBBY RECHNITZ

JULY 15, 2026 13:05

Some politicians chase the spotlight while others focus on creating real impact. Senator Lindsey Graham fit squarely into the second group.

His death marks a deep loss for the United States, Israel, and all who value principle over popularity in public life. I had the privilege of knowing Lindsey well. Our friendship began nearly two decades ago, and what impressed me most was not only his steadfast backing of Israel or his command of foreign affairs. It was his integrity.

That quality appears too seldom in politics now. It crosses party lines yet has grown scarce everywhere. Lindsey never let surveys, media coverage, or shifting opinions shape his views. Whether upholding constitutional norms, addressing security needs, or supporting allies, he acted on what he saw as right. He willingly embraced unpopular stances when they served a larger purpose.

A telling case arose after his presidential bid. He had faced pointed attacks from Donald Trump. Many would have let resentment block future ties. Lindsey chose differently. He set personal feelings aside because he saw cooperation with President Trump as beneficial to national interests. Events later showed this choice contributed to key successes, including court selections, security measures, and a firmer American role in the Middle East. The skill of separating individuals from ideals has grown uncommon.

Israel held a special spot in Lindsey's affections. After leaving military duty and before declaring his 2015 candidacy, he decided to visit two locations that mirrored his core values and asked me to accompany him. He first went to Afghanistan to thank and motivate American troops. He then traveled to Israel to renew his pledge to the Jewish state.

His advocacy for Israel never stemmed from deals or politics. It grew from shared democratic ideals and the conviction that America and Israel defend freedom together. Whether pushing for essential security aid, countering unfair critiques, backing recognition of Israeli control over the Golan Heights, or safeguarding Israel's position in Washington, Lindsey remained reliable.

Just months earlier I had the honor of presenting Senator Graham at The Jerusalem Post Washington Summit inside the U.S. Capitol, where I recounted an episode that highlighted both his strategic insight and his affection for Israel.

Before President Trump acknowledged Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, Lindsey arranged a visit there during our talks about his Israel trip. Standing on the Heights and viewing the strategic overlook of northern Israel, he grasped the stakes at once. From the Golan he phoned President Trump directly and outlined why, from a security standpoint, the Heights must stay under Israeli control. He next met Prime Minister Netanyahu and encouraged him to press the matter. The outcome is known. President Trump affirmed Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, a move that bolstered Israel's security and righted a historic wrong. Lindsey merits great credit for advancing that result.

His dedication to Israel's safety showed even when it required differing with Israeli officials. During the Obama years, as Washington crafted a fresh ten-year military aid deal for Israel, Lindsey felt Israel warranted a firmer pledge than proposed. He advised Prime Minister Netanyahu against accepting the package because he believed America could offer more to its key Middle East partner. Netanyahu declined to reject the accord for valid political reasons, yet Lindsey kept pressing for what he viewed as Israel's true needs, even when it meant clashing with allies.

Much of Lindsey's work will stay outside history texts. He labored quietly on projects that remain unknown publicly and sought neither praise nor notice. That behind-the-scenes effort often matched the value of his public statements or hearings. He prized outcomes over attention.

What also set him apart was his regard for others. Lindsey could argue strongly without turning hostile. He avoided turning policy disputes into personal matters. He could debate with passion and then share a laugh soon after. His wit eased friction, his politeness won regard, and his genuineness made him one of Capitol Hill's most trusted figures. Members of both parties respected him. Even opponents seldom doubted his honesty.

He never overlooked his roots. His modest origins stayed central to his character and guided his grasp of service, sacrifice, and chance. His dedication to America's military stayed constant throughout his career. He recognized that liberty rests on power, and he spent great effort keeping America's forces the world's strongest. His support reached past U.S. borders as he backed democratic partners confronting shared dangers, whether in Israel, Taiwan, or other places.

Many called him one of the most capable senators of the Trump period. I think history will credit him with something larger. He proved it is possible to blend principle with courtesy, love of country with modesty, and resolve with fairness.

Israel has lost one of its strongest supporters. I would go further. For all he did for the Jewish state, frequently at political expense and without seeking notice, Israel should count Lindsey Graham among the righteous of the nations.

Perhaps the finest way to honor Lindsey Graham is not only to recall him but to follow his example. When democracies confront growing dangers and extremism tests the free world, we each bear a duty to back those who protect liberty, reinforce the partnerships that sustain it, and act with the integrity that marked his extraordinary life.

Lindsey Graham showed us that public service is not about personal advancement. It is about leaving your country, your allies, and the world stronger than you found them.

That is the legacy he leaves behind.

In closing, I simply want to say this: I will miss you, my friend.

The writer is a Los-Angeles based philanthropist and real-estate developer who serves as chairman of the Abraham Accords Roundtable and Golda Meir Commemorative Coin Committee in Washington DC.