Joe Wilson
Representative for South Carolina · Republican · United States
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H4697] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRUMP ACCOUNTS FOR CHILDREN (Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H4697] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRUMP ACCOUNTS FOR CHILDREN (Mr.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to support the National Defense Authorization Act. We all appreciate Chairman Mike Rogers for his leadership and commitment for our men and women in uniform and for promoting peace through strength. We are in a conflict we did not choose between dictators with rule of gun invading democracies with rule of law.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E717-E718] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] APPRECIATING KITA ______ HON.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E717-E718] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] APPRECIATING KITA ______ HON.”
“Additional support is provided by leading companies and generous philanthropists. Children born between 2025 and 2028 will be eligible for a one-time, $1,000 Federal Government deposit. Once the child turns 18, they can use the money for expenses such as education, first home purchases, starting a business, or other use. Mr.”
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“Please know that through my work on both the House Foreign Affairs and Armed Services Committees, I will continue to do all I can to defend our alliance and to keep it strong and free. I wish KITA every success. [[Page E718]] ____________________”
“As the Lead Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Korea, it has been my focus to deepen the bonds of the friendship we share, and to highlight how trade and people-to-people exchange underpins the foundation of our relationship. KITA has been at the forefront of this effort in this regard, and its 80,000 member companies have done so much to impact our alliance and the U.S. economy as one of our top foreign direct investors. The 2nd Congressional District of South Carolina that I am grateful to represent has ties to the Republic of Korea through investments made into our state. KITA has helped to create meaningful jobs and, in doing so, has also enriched our communities.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E717-E718] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] APPRECIATING KITA ______ HON. JOE WILSON of south carolina in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Korean International Trade Association (KITA). I have shared a longstanding relationship with this illustrious organization and have been proud to work alongside them in promoting increased trade and investment between our two nations to strengthen the U.S.-Korea alliance.”
“President Donald Trump has made it clear: We will defend American families with our allies and give our warriors the tools they need to win. Israeli research has been vital for missile defense, and Ukraine is leading on drones and robotics. The late Sergeant Thomas Caughman of Lexington, South Carolina, an American hero, is correct: Freedom is not free. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to support the National Defense Authorization Act. We all appreciate Chairman Mike Rogers for his leadership and commitment for our men and women in uniform and for promoting peace through strength. We are in a conflict we did not choose between dictators with rule of gun invading democracies with rule of law. This National Defense Authorization Act prepares America for emerging threats from our adversaries who, working together, seek to destroy our hard-won freedom. This bill makes clear that we stand with our allies against murderous invasion. America is engaged in worldwide competition. There is inclusion of robust authorization for nuclear modernization, emerging technologies, information operations, and industrial capacity advancements.”
“Additional support is provided by leading companies and generous philanthropists. Children born between 2025 and 2028 will be eligible for a one-time, $1,000 Federal Government deposit. Once the child turns 18, they can use the money for expenses such as education, first home purchases, starting a business, or other use. Mr. Speaker, in conclusion, God bless our troops. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump, mocking Trump, providing targeting intelligence to Iran to murder American troops, and leading President Trump to endorse the Lindsey Graham sanctions act to enable victory for Ukrainians. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H4697] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRUMP ACCOUNTS FOR CHILDREN (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, led by President Donald Trump, Speaker Mike Johnson, and House Republicans, the Working Families Tax Cut Act created Trump Accounts, giving families the opportunity to invest in the future of their children. The account is a new tax-deferred opportunity for children under 18, providing retirement savings. Contributions can add up to $5,000 a year.”
“Please know that through my work on both the House Foreign Affairs and Armed Services Committees, I will continue to do all I can to defend our alliance and to keep it strong and free. I wish KITA every success. [[Page E718]] ____________________”
“As the Lead Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Korea, it has been my focus to deepen the bonds of the friendship we share, and to highlight how trade and people-to-people exchange underpins the foundation of our relationship. KITA has been at the forefront of this effort in this regard, and its 80,000 member companies have done so much to impact our alliance and the U.S. economy as one of our top foreign direct investors. The 2nd Congressional District of South Carolina that I am grateful to represent has ties to the Republic of Korea through investments made into our state. KITA has helped to create meaningful jobs and, in doing so, has also enriched our communities.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E717-E718] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] APPRECIATING KITA ______ HON. JOE WILSON of south carolina in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Korean International Trade Association (KITA). I have shared a longstanding relationship with this illustrious organization and have been proud to work alongside them in promoting increased trade and investment between our two nations to strengthen the U.S.-Korea alliance.”
“Additional support is provided by leading companies and generous philanthropists. Children born between 2025 and 2028 will be eligible for a one-time, $1,000 Federal Government deposit. Once the child turns 18, they can use the money for expenses such as education, first home purchases, starting a business, or other use. Mr. Speaker, in conclusion, God bless our troops. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump, mocking Trump, providing targeting intelligence to Iran to murder American troops, and leading President Trump to endorse the Lindsey Graham sanctions act to enable victory for Ukrainians. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H4697] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRUMP ACCOUNTS FOR CHILDREN (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, led by President Donald Trump, Speaker Mike Johnson, and House Republicans, the Working Families Tax Cut Act created Trump Accounts, giving families the opportunity to invest in the future of their children. The account is a new tax-deferred opportunity for children under 18, providing retirement savings. Contributions can add up to $5,000 a year.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Page H4543] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] ADJOURNMENT Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn. The motion was agreed to; accordingly (at 7 o'clock and 36 minutes p.m.), under its previous order, the House adjourned until tomorrow, Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 9 a.m. ____________________”
“Speaker, I am humbled to be here tonight to pay tribute to a great American, a great patriot, and a South Carolinian who will always be cherished. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. ____________________”
“I also want everyone to know that the other Members of Congress had different conflicts, but bipartisan Congressman Jim Clyburn wanted to extend his greatest sympathy. He and Senator Graham really had a great working relationship. It was bipartisan. I am grateful to the Congresswoman from the First District, Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who indeed has been grief-stricken and released statements. I appreciate the statements from Congressman William Timmons of Greenville, Congressman Ralph Norman, Congressman Russell Fry, Congresswoman Sheri Biggs, and Senator Tim Scott. We are so fortunate, the Federal delegation that we have is so tied together with deep appreciation of the service that each of us have had. [[Page H4543]] Mr.”
“I want to thank the chairman of the Republican Party, Drew McKissick, for his heartfelt tribute from the South Carolina Republican Party that truly indicates the love and affection that the people of South Carolina have for Lindsey Graham. Then it goes on to I am really grateful for the National Review-- which was the initial conservative publication for so many of us and with a South Carolina connection--William F. Buckley, Jr. and the Buckley family of Camden, South Carolina. The National Review had a wonderful review by Jeffrey Blehar on July 14, indicating what an extraordinary individual Senator Lindsey Graham was. Then it continues with references by other publications from around the world as to the accomplishments of Senator Lindsey Graham and all of us that have had the opportunity to serve with him.”
“With that, they also had an editorial that truly was meaningful, in that the sudden passage of Senator Graham ``immediately brought well- deserved, fulsome tributes from across the political spectrum, but actions can speak louder than words--and his colleagues in Washington and his beloved South Carolina have clear opportunities to honor his legacy by continuing it. ``Specifically, the House and Senate can pass the additional `secondary' sanctions on Vladimir Putin's Russian war machine that Graham pushed in recent months.'' Indeed, that is being done today. Also, I want to commend that there has been a remarkable editorial that I hope some people read from The Wall Street Journal: Lindsey Graham, the Senator was an influential voice for global world leadership.”
“It was about loving the country.'' It has been really so remarkable to see the outpouring around the world: There were calls from members of the National Assembly of Bulgaria, from the Bundestag in Germany, and from the National Assembly in Thailand. As Congresswoman Biggs has so carefully and clearly stated, worldwide Lindsey Graham was appreciated for what he has done for Peace Through Strength, to our rebuild our military and alliances around the world. Additionally, I am very grateful that there were a number of editorials that I hope people will look up. For example, it was very meaningful to me, the New York Post had a wonderful tribute to him, indeed: ``Washington in shock as Senate stalwart dies suddenly at 71 Death of a Patriot.'' How clear that is. The article further identifies what an extraordinary individual the Senator was.”
“It was an incredible display, and he did it from the heart. He felt strongly about Brett, and he did it from the heart, and he turned the whole thing around.'' President Trump praised Senator Graham's political skill and ability to build relationships. The President says: ``He got along with everybody and yet, he was a tough cookie in a lot of ways. Honestly, he was a great politician. People don't realize what a good politician he was . . . This man was a great politician. He really got it.'' Additionally, he reflected on the broader legacy of Senator Graham: ``We lost great man. He was a great man. He was a great politician, and he was a kind man . . . The real loser was the United States of America. We lost a great person, a kind person, a very smart person . . . Everything for him was about work.”
“He was unique in every way . . . I just can't believe it. He was like a member of the family to me. It's very tough, actually. He was such an advocate.'' Additionally, President Trump reflected on his final conversation with Senator Graham: ``It's devastating. I thought he was fine. He called me last night . . . What a terrible loss it is. He was a great politician. He was a natural. There are very few of them. He was a natural politician. He got along with everybody.'' Additionally, President Trump singled out Senator Graham's passionate defense of Brett Kavanaugh as a stand-out Senate moment. ``I think his finest moment was his defense of Brett Kavanaugh, who's a terrific guy and was treated very, very unfairly by the Democrats . . . I think it was a top 10, maybe a top 5, moment in the history of the Senate.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank Congresswoman Sheri Biggs for her words. Indeed, it is such a great honor for all of us to serve with the gentlewoman. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire how much time remains. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman from South Carolina has 9 minutes remaining. {time} 1930 Indeed, I am grateful because I wanted to really bring to the attention of the American people and to the people in South Carolina the deep affection that President Donald Trump had for our senior Senator Lindsey Graham. In fact, the White House statement upon his death is so clear, and that is that President Trump reflects on the life and legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham following his sudden passing this weekend. It is a really touching situation. President Trump describes the loss as deeply personal. ``He's a tough one to lose. He was great.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Russell Fry from the Seventh District. Indeed, 2 Timothy is a proper reference from the Bible of a person whom we so admire. We are so fortunate to be joined this evening by the Congresswoman from the Third District of South Carolina, Sheri Biggs. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from South Carolina (Mrs. Biggs).”
“All three generations of the [[Page H4541]] Wilson family extend deepest sympathy and appreciation of his dedicated service.'' The three generations of the Wilson family begin with my wife, Roxanne, and myself. I am really grateful our son, Attorney General Alan Wilson, who we have really been so appreciative, was to be on the Lindsey Graham Republican ticket as the nominee for Governor of South Carolina in November. The Wilson family is so happy to work with persons and now with Darline Graham, what a wonderful person. Then our third generation actually, Houston Wilson of SMU served as a Graham U.S. Senate floor page. Over and over again, our family appreciates personally and the people of South Carolina are so grateful for the service of Senator Lindsey Graham.”
“Additionally, when Senator Graham arrived back in Washington on Saturday, how incredible that he had the strength and fortitude to have a very long conversation with President Donald Trump to review the activities of the week and the successes that he saw of the Trump administration to provide peace through strength, but suddenly there was sudden death right after the phone call. With that, myself personally, when I learned of the passing of the Senator, I was at Souda Bay in Greece visiting Navy personnel of the U.S. Navy to, indeed, thank them for their service. As soon as I heard about the passing, within an hour, I sent a tweet: ``With the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham, he will always be cherished as an American patriot, tireless for peace through strength, successful defeating totalitarians.”
“While he was there, he was able to announce that in working with President Donald Trump that there would be sanctions on war criminal Putin and on Russia. Indeed, it is so meaningful that indeed as soon as we got back to Washington, the U.S. Senate--I thank Senator John Cornyn and others--have made it possible that there will be a Russian Sanctions Act which, indeed, will be in the name of Lindsey Graham as the Lindsey Graham Russian Sanctions Act. It will be so impressive to help back up the people of Ukraine.”
“It was really very significant because he had been skeptical, as many people, about the new Government of Syria. He, upon meeting with President al-Sharaa, identified that President Donald Trump was correct, give Syria a chance, and so it was exciting that he announced that he looked forward to actual progress with the new Government of Syria to be working with the United States. Additionally, he next went to Kyiv, Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. While he was there, it was so impressive that he had the opportunity to also visit a drone manufacturing facility to see the extraordinary success of the people of Ukraine, who are going to be victorious over war criminal Putin. With the development of drone technology, indeed, the people of Ukraine are an inspiration.”
“Indeed he made history and became the first Republican elected from Oconee to the State House of South Carolina. Sunday morning, when I spoke with President Donald Trump, I knew he shared the grief of all South Carolinians. It was just heartfelt to hear him as we reviewed the service of Senator Graham, understanding that he truly was a champion for peace through strength, dedicated to public service, his military career, his service as a veteran, and his service in the State House, U.S. Senate, and in every way backing up the people of South Carolina. Senator Graham's last week of life was symbolic of his dedication for America. He attended the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkiye. While he was there, he met with President Ahmed al-Sharaa of Syria.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Norman for his heartfelt comments. Indeed, I agree with and appreciated talk radio show host Kelly Nash, WVOC, who correctly began statewide broadcasting Monday that South Carolinians are heartbroken upon learning of the passing of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham on Saturday. I will always be grateful for my decades-long association with Senator Graham, as we served together. He was the South Carolina Air Guard Staff Judge Advocate, and I was the South Carolina Army Staff Judge Advocate serving together. Courageously, after one of our drill days, he announced to me his candidacy for the State House from Oconee County, South Carolina. I immediately congratulated him, but then I caught myself, and I remembered that, in fact, nobody from our party had ever been elected from Oconee County to the State House.”
“Mr. Speaker, the South Carolina House delegation is humbled to pay tribute to our beloved late U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham. We have several Members here tonight to speak. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from South Carolina, (Mr. Norman) of Rock Hill.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Page H4543] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] ADJOURNMENT Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn. The motion was agreed to; accordingly (at 7 o'clock and 36 minutes p.m.), under its previous order, the House adjourned until tomorrow, Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 9 a.m. ____________________”
“Speaker, I am humbled to be here tonight to pay tribute to a great American, a great patriot, and a South Carolinian who will always be cherished. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. ____________________”
“I also want everyone to know that the other Members of Congress had different conflicts, but bipartisan Congressman Jim Clyburn wanted to extend his greatest sympathy. He and Senator Graham really had a great working relationship. It was bipartisan. I am grateful to the Congresswoman from the First District, Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who indeed has been grief-stricken and released statements. I appreciate the statements from Congressman William Timmons of Greenville, Congressman Ralph Norman, Congressman Russell Fry, Congresswoman Sheri Biggs, and Senator Tim Scott. We are so fortunate, the Federal delegation that we have is so tied together with deep appreciation of the service that each of us have had. [[Page H4543]] Mr.”
“I want to thank the chairman of the Republican Party, Drew McKissick, for his heartfelt tribute from the South Carolina Republican Party that truly indicates the love and affection that the people of South Carolina have for Lindsey Graham. Then it goes on to I am really grateful for the National Review-- which was the initial conservative publication for so many of us and with a South Carolina connection--William F. Buckley, Jr. and the Buckley family of Camden, South Carolina. The National Review had a wonderful review by Jeffrey Blehar on July 14, indicating what an extraordinary individual Senator Lindsey Graham was. Then it continues with references by other publications from around the world as to the accomplishments of Senator Lindsey Graham and all of us that have had the opportunity to serve with him.”
“With that, they also had an editorial that truly was meaningful, in that the sudden passage of Senator Graham ``immediately brought well- deserved, fulsome tributes from across the political spectrum, but actions can speak louder than words--and his colleagues in Washington and his beloved South Carolina have clear opportunities to honor his legacy by continuing it. ``Specifically, the House and Senate can pass the additional `secondary' sanctions on Vladimir Putin's Russian war machine that Graham pushed in recent months.'' Indeed, that is being done today. Also, I want to commend that there has been a remarkable editorial that I hope some people read from The Wall Street Journal: Lindsey Graham, the Senator was an influential voice for global world leadership.”
“It was about loving the country.'' It has been really so remarkable to see the outpouring around the world: There were calls from members of the National Assembly of Bulgaria, from the Bundestag in Germany, and from the National Assembly in Thailand. As Congresswoman Biggs has so carefully and clearly stated, worldwide Lindsey Graham was appreciated for what he has done for Peace Through Strength, to our rebuild our military and alliances around the world. Additionally, I am very grateful that there were a number of editorials that I hope people will look up. For example, it was very meaningful to me, the New York Post had a wonderful tribute to him, indeed: ``Washington in shock as Senate stalwart dies suddenly at 71 Death of a Patriot.'' How clear that is. The article further identifies what an extraordinary individual the Senator was.”
“It was an incredible display, and he did it from the heart. He felt strongly about Brett, and he did it from the heart, and he turned the whole thing around.'' President Trump praised Senator Graham's political skill and ability to build relationships. The President says: ``He got along with everybody and yet, he was a tough cookie in a lot of ways. Honestly, he was a great politician. People don't realize what a good politician he was . . . This man was a great politician. He really got it.'' Additionally, he reflected on the broader legacy of Senator Graham: ``We lost great man. He was a great man. He was a great politician, and he was a kind man . . . The real loser was the United States of America. We lost a great person, a kind person, a very smart person . . . Everything for him was about work.”
“He was unique in every way . . . I just can't believe it. He was like a member of the family to me. It's very tough, actually. He was such an advocate.'' Additionally, President Trump reflected on his final conversation with Senator Graham: ``It's devastating. I thought he was fine. He called me last night . . . What a terrible loss it is. He was a great politician. He was a natural. There are very few of them. He was a natural politician. He got along with everybody.'' Additionally, President Trump singled out Senator Graham's passionate defense of Brett Kavanaugh as a stand-out Senate moment. ``I think his finest moment was his defense of Brett Kavanaugh, who's a terrific guy and was treated very, very unfairly by the Democrats . . . I think it was a top 10, maybe a top 5, moment in the history of the Senate.”
“Speaker, I thank Congresswoman Sheri Biggs for her words. Indeed, it is such a great honor for all of us to serve with the gentlewoman. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire how much time remains. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman from South Carolina has 9 minutes remaining. {time} 1930 Indeed, I am grateful because I wanted to really bring to the attention of the American people and to the people in South Carolina the deep affection that President Donald Trump had for our senior Senator Lindsey Graham. In fact, the White House statement upon his death is so clear, and that is that President Trump reflects on the life and legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham following his sudden passing this weekend. It is a really touching situation. President Trump describes the loss as deeply personal. ``He's a tough one to lose. He was great.”
“He fought hard to shape the conservative Supreme Court as we know it today. He defended the sanctity of life. He championed our servicemembers and veterans. He remained one of the strongest advocates for our allies abroad. I was thinking earlier today, when we were in Seneca, South Carolina, with some Members who were supporters of Israel. We talked about our faith. I remember him standing in front of that congregation. It was at a church, and he was so passionate about his work and those people. He didn't hesitate for 1 minute to talk about his faith. Those are the things that I will remember, how strong he was and how he didn't waver one bit. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Senator Lindsey Graham's extraordinary life of service and in praying for his family and all who mourn his loss. Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr.”
“He devoted over 30 years to representing the people of South Carolina in the statehouse, in the United States House of Representatives, and in the United States Senate. His commitment to service, his love for South Carolina, and his unwavering devotion to the people he represented will leave a legacy that endures for generations. I have had members of the military call in this week to express their sincere condolences for our loss in South Carolina. He was a friend to South Carolina, but he was also a friend to other States and other nations. He will be missed dearly. Throughout his career, he was a steadfast champion of our conservative principles. Not everyone agreed with his politics and his policies, but one thing I think that we can agree on is that he did love his State and loved his country.”
“He was raised in the town of Central, which is in my district. He learned the value of hard work in his family's restaurant. After losing both his parents while attending college, he became the guardian of his younger sister, Darline, putting family before himself and demonstrating the character that would define his life. As a healthcare provider, as a psychiatric mental health practitioner, I can't help but think about what that must have been like for that young man, the enormous responsibility and how he put everything before his own self. From that moment on, service became the defining purpose of his life. Senator Graham earned his law degree. He served our Nation in the United States Air Force, retiring as a colonel after more than three decades.”
“Biggs). Mrs. BIGGS of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding. I really appreciate the leadership of Congressman Wilson and Congressman Fry's friendship. Mr. Speaker, today, South Carolina mourns the loss of one of its most dedicated public servants, Senator Lindsey Graham. I can't tell you how many calls I have gotten this week, some of them not even our constituents and some of them not even from the State of South Carolina. I think the impact that Senator Graham made was worldwide, as my colleagues have already mentioned. I know this week Governor McMaster appropriately named Darline to fill her brother's term, and I applaud that decision. We wish her success and Team South Carolina is here to assist in anything that she may need during her term. [[Page H4542]] Lindsey's story was a South Carolina story.”
“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for His appearing.'' My friend, Lindsey Graham, has fought the good fight. He has kept the faith. Although unexpectedly, I know he is reunited with his parents. He has received that crown, and in the midst of that beautiful reunion, he has heard the words: Well done, My good and faithful servant. Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Russell Fry from the Seventh District. Indeed, 2 Timothy is a proper reference from the Bible of a person whom we so admire. We are so fortunate to be joined this evening by the Congresswoman from the Third District of South Carolina, Sheri Biggs. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from South Carolina (Mrs.”
“That takes real courage, that takes guts, and that takes a lot of long days and evenings navigating that endless array of traps that you could fall into, Mr. Speaker, but that was who he was. He didn't sit around and wait for things to happen. He was always in the middle, trying to make sure that we were delivering on the things that we said we would. It was always an honor, Mr. Speaker, to work with him and Mr. Wilson, of course, and this whole delegation. It matters greatly. His loss is going to be tough to deal with just on a personal level but also on the way that he helped deliver for South Carolina. In 2 Timothy, the Apostle Paul writes: ``I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
“He worked on things that mattered to South Carolina, whether it was an appropriation for a firehouse in Cheraw, South Carolina, whether it was a piece of legislation that he and I worked on, the Logan Federico act, it would be a phenomenally good change in the way that we track violent criminals in this State. He always had his finger on the pulse of what was going on. He was always thinking about how to make the lives of South Carolinians and the American people a little bit better. Everyone knows how impactful he was not just in the Senate but with the White House. He was the unofficial whisperer to President Trump, how to navigate and have success in this body and in this town, making sure that you are delivering an agenda that the American people elected you to do.”
“Of course, I loved it. I had never been to D.C., but I loved the experience of fielding phone calls and seeing how our government works. That was who he was. Later, Mr. Speaker, when I got elected to Congress, the Senator jokingly asked if I wanted my desk back from when I was an intern and my old headset back, but the scars from that summer were still fresh. I did not take him up on that offer. The great thing about the Senator that I would say, just as a person who grew up watching his career and then being part of Team South Carolina and fighting for the State, was that he really invested in people. He would work with Congressman Wilson's office and Congressman Clyburn, the whole delegation. He would work with our new addition, our fantastic addition, Mrs. Biggs, to try to find ways to advance issues that she was working on.”
“Our President then, George W. Bush, was campaigning with him in Columbia, South Carolina. I just remember at such a young age, just the moment after 9/11, how impacted the country was and the feeling of unity. Certainly, the President captured that at the time. He captured that, and it really helped land him in the United States Senate. I, fortunately, interned for him. It was an interesting summer because Lindsey always liked to tackle tough issues. He didn't come up here to not be in the middle of the fray. President Teddy Roosevelt talks about the man in the arena, that even if he fails, he does so striving valiantly. That particular summer, Mr. Speaker, was the summer that he tried to tackle comprehensive immigration reform, which landed him in a lot of hot water from both sides of the political aisle. I just remember that summer.”
“He was in the State legislature; he was a Congressman; and he was our Senator for 30 years. In South Carolina, we have Senators for a long time. Thirty years is a long time in this body, and what a mark it is that he left. Some people come up to Washington, D.C., and hit ``yes,'' hit ``no,'' and think that they have done something impactful, but Lindsey Graham was a mover and a shaker. He really understood how to maneuver and how to work with people to accomplish something. I think it was said by Mr. Wilson earlier that even when you disagreed with him, he found something that we could work on together. That is a hallmark of who he was. I first saw Lindsey when I was 18 years old, and he was campaigning for the first time for the United States Senate. It was after 9/11. He was in Congress at the time but was campaigning.”
“It really was kind of a hallmark of who he was. He was from central South Carolina, born to working-class parents who died very early. He was placed in an incredible predicament, at 21 years of age, to take care of his 13-year-old sister. What an insane thing to think about in our country right now, that somebody would do that and that they would not just try to do it--a lot of people would try to care for their siblings--but that they would be successful in that endeavor and really stop and take a moment and make sure that your number one mission was the success of your family and your young sister. {time} 1920 Lindsey's entire world was turned upside down when he lost his parents, but he did a remarkable job. I think that shows who he is as a person. He has had a lot of titles, Mr. Speaker.”
“I am very happy that we have been joined by Congressman Russell Fry of Surfside Beach, and I now yield to him. Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I thank Joe Wilson for organizing this fitting tribute to a statesman who we will surely miss. I join my colleagues here both from South Carolina but really around the country, and indeed around the world, in mourning the passing of our senior Senator, statesman Lindsey Graham. Lindsey was more than just a Senator. He was a dedicated public servant, a fierce advocate for South Carolina, and an even better person and a great friend. His life, his legacy are the people and the lives that he touched, the energy that he brought to public service, the dedication to issues, the enjoyment of a good argument, even when you disagreed with him, and the humor that he always had really in almost every situation.”