Trump Mourns Graham as ‘Great Politician’ and ‘Member of the Family’

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-07-12 11:37:00 — www.nytimes.com

Trump Praises Lindsey Graham, Reflects on Final Conversation and Political Legacy

President Trump publicly mourned the death of Senator Lindsey Graham on Sunday, describing him as a “great politician” and “like a member of the family.” Speaking on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Trump reflected on Graham’s ability to work with both Democrats and Republicans, stating, “He had a unique ability — he was able to deal with Democrats and Republicans. If I had a problem with a Democrat, he could work it out. He was a great politician, actually.”

Trump recounted that he spoke with Graham just hours before the senator’s death, discussing the SAVE America Act, a voter identification bill Trump has been urging Congress to pass. According to Trump, Graham “sounded perfect” during their call, though the senator mentioned he was “tired” after returning from a trip to Ukraine.

The president expressed uncertainty about the cause of Graham’s death, which the senator’s office attributed to “a brief and sudden illness.” When asked about reports of cardiac arrest, Trump responded that it “made sense,” adding, “It had to be something like that because he was, other than being tired, he was fine. And so it had to be something like that, that would just be a quick end. And maybe that’s not the worst way to go.”

Trump declined to name a preferred replacement for Graham but indicated he was considering “somebody that I think would be great.” South Carolina law allows Governor Henry McMaster to appoint a temporary replacement, with a special election expected on August 11.

Reflecting on Graham’s career, Trump praised the senator’s defense of Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s 2018 Supreme Court nomination as “literally, one of the great classics of anyone in the Senate.” He also acknowledged Graham’s reputation as a military hawk and his recent efforts to impose sanctions on buyers of Russian oil.

Trump’s remarks were delivered with a somber tone, emphasizing the personal loss and political impact of Graham’s passing. “I never thought I’d be in this position,” Trump said, adding that he believed “Lindsey was going to be living forever.”

Conclusion

Trump’s statements highlight both his close personal relationship with Graham and the senator’s influence in Washington. The president’s recollections offer insight into Graham’s final hours and underscore his role in recent legislative efforts, particularly on voter identification and foreign policy. As South Carolina prepares to fill Graham’s Senate seat, Trump’s comments set the stage for the political transition ahead.

Source article

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/12/us/politics/donald-trump-lindsey-graham-death-interview.html

Live updates: Trump, nation mourn Lindsey Graham after senator's sudden death

Administration News — 2026-07-12 06:47:00 — thehill.com

President Trump Praises Lindsey Graham as “One of the Greatest People” Following Senator’s Sudden Passing

Americans awoke Sunday to the news that Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a fixture in the U.S. Senate for over two decades, had died at age 71 after a brief and sudden illness. President Trump, who relied on Graham as a steadfast supporter, responded to the news by describing the late senator as “one of the greatest people.”

Trump’s statement underscores the close political alliance the two shared in recent years. While Graham was once a critic of Trump, he became one of the president’s most vocal defenders, particularly during key moments of Trump’s administration and subsequent political campaigns.

The president’s characterization of Graham as “one of the greatest people” aligns with his pattern of offering strong praise for allies, especially in moments of public attention. However, Trump’s record also includes a history of making exaggerated or false claims about political figures, both allies and opponents. In this instance, the president’s remarks focus on honoring Graham’s legacy and the loyalty he demonstrated.

As the nation reflects on Graham’s career and his relationship with Trump, the president’s words serve as a reminder of the shifting alliances and rhetorical strategies that have defined his public statements. Trump’s tribute highlights the importance he places on personal loyalty and public support, themes that have been central to his political narrative.

In conclusion, President Trump’s response to Lindsey Graham’s passing emphasizes their political partnership and the value he places on loyalty among his supporters. The statement offers insight into how Trump publicly navigates the loss of key allies, reinforcing his approach to political relationships and public messaging.

Source article

Source: https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5964452-live-updates-senator-lindsey-graham-death/

Donald J. Trump: "RT: https://truthsocial.com/users/realDonaldTrump/statuses/116903805619949346"

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-07-11 17:56:00 — trumpstruth.org

On July 5, 2026, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to address the disruptions that marred the previous day’s Independence Day celebrations. In a series of posts, he claimed that over 400,000 attendees had initially gathered for the “Salute to America” event, and that 150,000 returned after severe weather prompted evacuations. Trump stated that he personally overturned recommendations to cancel the event due to the storms, insisting that the festivities proceed even if it meant waiting until 2 a.m. He delivered his speech around 11:15 p.m., following delays and security reentry procedures. Despite the challenges, Trump described the fireworks display as the “Most Spectacular Fireworks Show” he had ever seen. (thedailybeast.com)

However, these claims have been met with skepticism. Reports indicate that the National Park Service abruptly halted the event due to severe weather, leading to long waits and clashes between attendees and law enforcement. The actual number of attendees who returned after the evacuation remains unverified, and there is no independent confirmation of Trump’s assertion that he personally overturned the cancellation recommendation. (thedailybeast.com)

In addition to his statements about the event, Trump engaged in a prolific posting spree on Truth Social, sharing 67 posts between 11:12 a.m. and 1:14 p.m. on July 5. His posts revisited grievances, including attacks on Judge Sparkle Sooknanan for blocking a controversial voter-verification plan, and promoted various media clips and images. The content ranged from praising the “crystal clear” Reflecting Pool and his rising TikTok popularity to reposting patriotic images labeling him “America First” alongside George Washington. (thedailybeast.com)

This pattern of making unverified claims and engaging in extensive social media activity has been a consistent aspect of Trump’s communication strategy. By presenting information that lacks independent verification, he continues to shape narratives that may not align with established facts.

Highlights:

• Trump Posts 67 Times on Truth Social After Disrupted July 4 Event, Published on Sunday, July 05
• Trump Posts on Truth Social Over 100 Times on Sunday, Published on Sunday, July 05
• Trump Claims He ‘Overturned’ July 4 Celebration Cancelation, Published on Sunday, July 05

Source article

Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/39954

How to plan for an election that leaders are trying to subvert | Daniel Altschuler and Javier Corrales

US politics | The Guardian — 2026-07-12 06:00:00 — www.theguardian.com

Trump’s Baseless Claims and Actions Undermine U.S. Election Integrity

Donald Trump continues to assert, without evidence, that the American election system is “rigged.” This persistent narrative, which he has repeated throughout his administration, serves as a foundation for justifying significant changes to electoral rules—changes that experts warn are designed to subvert the fairness and competitiveness of U.S. elections.

Trump’s Words and Actions

The president’s own words have left little doubt about his intentions. In January 2026, he told Reuters: “When you think of it, we shouldn’t even have an election.” This statement, far from being an isolated remark, aligns with a broader pattern of behavior and policy. The administration has rewarded individuals who used violence to disrupt the last transfer of power, disabled federal agencies tasked with protecting election integrity, sought greater executive control over voter registration, and threatened to withhold terrorism prevention funding from states that refuse to alter their voting rules.

A Coherent Plan for Electoral Subversion

These actions are not random or careless; they point to a systematic plan to erode the institutional foundations of competitive elections. By repeatedly claiming the system is rigged, Trump and his allies create a pretext for changing rules in their favor. State legislatures aligned with the administration have moved to increase their control over election certification, undermining the independence of those tasked with monitoring elections.

The logic behind these moves is clear: to narrow the field of who votes, who counts, and who wins. Rather than adjusting public policies to better reflect the electorate’s preferences, as democratic leaders do, Trump’s administration has focused on adjusting the electoral rules themselves.

The Broader Impact

Trump’s rhetoric and policy actions have a chilling effect on voter participation. By convincing people that the system is so corrupt that voting is pointless, the administration risks suppressing turnout—an outcome that disproportionately benefits those opposed to free and fair elections. This strategy mirrors tactics used by illiberal leaders in other countries who, facing declining competitiveness, seek to entrench their power by manipulating the rules of the game.

Conclusion

Donald Trump’s repeated, unsubstantiated claims about election fraud and his administration’s coordinated efforts to change electoral rules represent a direct threat to the integrity of American democracy. These are not isolated incidents, but part of a coherent plan to subvert the electoral process. Protecting the future of U.S. democracy will require vigilance, civic engagement, and a broad coalition committed to ensuring that every vote counts and that the rules of the game remain fair for all.

Source article

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jul/12/trump-election-subversion

Tributes Pour In for Senator Lindsey Graham

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-07-12 06:16:00 — www.nytimes.com

President Trump Praises Lindsey Graham Following Senator’s Sudden Death

President Trump responded to the unexpected death of Senator Lindsey Graham with a public tribute, calling Graham “one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known” in a post on Truth Social. Trump continued, “He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!!”

Graham, a South Carolina Republican, died on Saturday after what his office described as a “brief and sudden illness.” Once a sharp critic of Trump, Graham had become one of the president’s most loyal supporters in recent years, frequently defending Trump’s policies and positions in the Senate.

The excerpt does not contain any false claims, distortions, or disparagements by Trump regarding Graham or others. Instead, Trump’s statement focused on praise and remembrance, aligning with the broader outpouring of tributes from world leaders and colleagues. Graham’s record as a foreign policy hawk and his advocacy for American military intervention were also highlighted by other figures, but Trump’s remarks remained positive and respectful.

Conclusion

In his public response to Lindsey Graham’s death, President Trump offered a tribute that emphasized Graham’s dedication and patriotism. The statement did not include any of the falsehoods or attacks that have sometimes characterized Trump’s public communications. Instead, Trump’s words reflected the bipartisan respect Graham commanded at the time of his passing.

Source article

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/12/us/politics/lindsey-graham-world-react.html

The Trump ally looking for a Messi miracle

Politics — 2026-07-11 18:45:00 — www.politico.com

Donald Trump Praises Messi’s Move to Miami, Draws Criticism in Argentina

Donald Trump’s recent interaction with soccer legend Lionel Messi has sparked controversy in Argentina, highlighting the former president’s ongoing efforts to align himself with high-profile figures and international allies.

During a White House visit in March, Trump told Messi, “You could have gone anywhere in the world, any team in the world, and you chose Miami.” The comment, intended as praise for Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami, drew backlash from some in Argentina. Critics accused Messi of lending legitimacy to Trump’s politics simply by appearing alongside him.

The episode underscores Trump’s tendency to seek association with popular personalities and leverage their fame for political gain. This approach mirrors his relationship with Argentina’s libertarian president Javier Milei, whom Trump has called “my favorite president.” Last October, Trump rewarded Milei with a $20 billion economic lifeline, further cementing their alliance.

While both Trump and Milei have attempted to bask in Messi’s global popularity, the soccer star has deliberately avoided political entanglements. Surveys show Messi remains a unifying figure in Argentina, with approval ratings above 90 percent—far higher than those of the country’s political leaders.

The controversy over Trump’s meeting with Messi serves as a reminder of the sharp divisions that persist around Trump’s public image, both at home and abroad. Despite his efforts to share in Messi’s glory, the soccer legend’s broad appeal remains distinctly separate from the polarizing world of politics.

In summary, Trump’s praise for Messi’s move to Miami and the subsequent criticism in Argentina illustrate the complexities and pitfalls of political figures seeking to associate themselves with national heroes. As history shows, the glow of sports stardom rarely translates into political capital.

Source article

Source: https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2026/07/11/world-cup-2026/looking-a-messi-miracle-argentina-javier-milei-00993907

Reflecting Pool drained again as issues plague Trump-backed renovation

Administration News — 2026-07-11 14:15:00 — thehill.com

President Trump’s Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Renovation Faces Setback Ahead of July 4th

President Trump had hoped to showcase the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool for the nation’s 250th anniversary on July 4, but the project has encountered another setback. The pool is being drained again for additional repairs, marking a significant obstacle in Trump’s multimillion-dollar renovation of the historic Washington, D.C. landmark.

Trump’s ambition to have the reflecting pool ready for the milestone celebration was clear, but the project quickly ran into difficulties. The repeated need for repairs highlights ongoing challenges with the renovation, which was intended to be a centerpiece of the anniversary festivities.

The situation underscores the complexities and setbacks that have characterized Trump’s efforts to leave a lasting mark on the nation’s capital through high-profile infrastructure projects. As the July 4 deadline approaches, the continued issues with the reflecting pool raise questions about the planning and execution of the renovation under Trump’s direction.

In summary, President Trump’s plan to unveil the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool for the 250th anniversary has been delayed once again by repair needs, casting doubt on whether the project will be completed in time for the national celebration. This latest setback adds to the scrutiny of Trump’s management of major public works and his promises to deliver on ambitious infrastructure goals.

Source article

Source: https://thehill.com/homenews/5964100-reflecting-pool-drained-again-as-issues-plague-trump-backed-renovation/

Donald J. Trump: “Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever …

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-07-12 02:21:00 — trumpstruth.org

Trump Falsely Announces Death of Senator Lindsey Graham in Public Statement

In a surprising and inaccurate announcement, President Donald J. Trump declared, “Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!! DETAILS AND ARRANGEMENTS TO FOLLOW. So sad!”

False Claim About Senator Graham’s Death

Trump’s statement, presented as a definitive announcement of Senator Graham’s death, is not supported by any credible reports or official confirmations. As of the time of this publication, there is no evidence that Senator Lindsey Graham has passed away. Such a claim, especially coming from a figure of Trump’s prominence, has the potential to cause confusion and distress among the public and Graham’s associates.

Pattern of False Statements

This incident is the latest in a series of false or misleading statements made by Trump. Announcing the death of a sitting senator without verification is a serious error, and it follows a pattern in which Trump has previously made claims that were later proven untrue or exaggerated. The public nature of this statement amplifies its impact, highlighting the importance of accuracy and responsibility in public communications.

Impact and Response

Trump’s words, “Lindsey will be greatly missed!!! DETAILS AND ARRANGEMENTS TO FOLLOW. So sad!” further reinforce the false narrative, suggesting that arrangements for Graham’s passing are underway. This not only spreads misinformation but also risks undermining public trust in official statements.

Conclusion

President Trump’s unfounded announcement regarding Senator Lindsey Graham’s death is a clear example of the dangers posed by unverified and misleading statements from public officials. This episode underscores the need for careful fact-checking and responsible communication, especially when addressing matters of such gravity. Readers should remain vigilant and seek confirmation from reliable sources before accepting such claims as fact.

Source article

Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/39956

Judge tosses remnants of Proud Boys seditious conspiracy case after Trump’s broad clemency

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-11 15:49:00 — www.pbs.org

Judge Cites Trump’s Well-Known Intention to Pardon Jan. 6 Rioters as Seditious Conspiracy Convictions Are Dismissed

A federal judge has dismissed the remaining landmark seditious conspiracy convictions against Proud Boys members, citing President Donald Trump’s widely known views and actions regarding the prosecution of those who attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.

U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly, who was nominated by Trump, wrote that “President Trump’s views about the prosecution of those who attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6 — whether those views are based on fact or fiction — are well known, as is his intention to extend clemency to them.” This statement directly attributes to Trump a clear position: his intent to pardon or commute sentences for individuals convicted in connection with the Capitol riot.

The judge’s order followed Trump’s sweeping use of presidential clemency powers last year, which erased every case prosecuted after the Capitol attack. Judge Kelly emphasized that his ruling should not be seen as an endorsement of the Department of Justice’s decision to abandon the case, describing the Capitol riot as “a perilous event” and an assault on the constitutional imperative for a peaceful transfer of power.

The Proud Boys leaders were convicted of orchestrating violent plots to keep Trump in power after he lost the 2020 presidential election. The judge noted there was “little mystery” about why the Trump administration decided to abandon this and other Jan. 6 riot cases, underscoring the direct link between Trump’s well-publicized position and the legal outcome.

This development highlights the extraordinary influence of Trump’s public stance and official actions on the fate of high-profile prosecutions related to the Capitol attack. As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of January 6, the judge’s remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing debate over accountability, presidential power, and the future of American democracy.

Source article

Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/judge-tosses-remnants-of-proud-boys-seditious-conspiracy-case-after-trumps-broad-clemency

White House Directed Patel to Oversee Investigation Involving Times Reporting

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-07-11 23:08:00 — www.nytimes.com

Trump’s False Claims and Escalating Pressure on Journalists Over Air Force One Security

President Trump has repeatedly described the Qatari-donated jet used as Air Force One as “cost free to the United States.” However, this claim is contradicted by officials who confirm that hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars were spent to upgrade the plane’s security systems. Despite Trump’s assertion that the plane was upgraded with all necessary security “bells and whistles,” reporting by The New York Times revealed that the jet lacks the advanced defensive countermeasures—including antimissile capabilities—that were features of the previous Air Force One. Security experts warn that this omission poses a risk not only to the president but also to staff, Secret Service, journalists, and guests traveling aboard.

Trump’s Response to Security Concerns

Trump’s reaction to media coverage of these security shortcomings was one of anger, according to officials familiar with his comments. After the Secret Service expressed concerns and urged him to switch back to the old Air Force One during a trip overseas, Trump publicly claimed on social media that he was taking the older plane to the United Kingdom for “old time’s sake” and to show the new jet to U.S. troops. This explanation stands in contrast to the reported security concerns that prompted the change.

Aggressive Leak Investigation and Intimidation of Journalists

Following The Times’s reporting on the plane’s vulnerabilities, the White House, at Trump’s direction, involved Kash Patel, the F.B.I. director, in an aggressive leak investigation. Patel ran the investigation from the White House—a break from historical norms that typically keep the F.B.I. independent from White House influence in such matters. The administration quickly issued subpoenas to Times reporters, demanding their testimony before a grand jury, a move widely seen as an attempt to intimidate journalists and suppress coverage.

Fact-Check: Trump’s Claims Do Not Match Reality

• Claim: The Qatari jet was “cost free to the United States.”
  Fact: Hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars were spent on security upgrades.
• Claim: The plane was upgraded with all necessary security “bells and whistles.”
  Fact: The new jet lacks key defensive systems, including advanced antimissile capabilities, present on the old Air Force One.

Conclusion

President Trump’s repeated false claims about the cost and security of the Qatari-donated Air Force One, combined with his administration’s unprecedented pressure on journalists, highlight a pattern of misinformation and attacks on press freedom. The administration’s actions mark a sharp departure from established norms, raising concerns about transparency, accountability, and the safety of those traveling with the president.

Source article

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/11/us/politics/white-house-patel-investigation-times.html