WATCH:
CNN’s Jake Tapper: “[Lindsey Graham] had some harsh words about you 10 years ago, when you were running against each other.”
President Trump: “Well, he ran against me, and he was, you know, formidable. He was a tough cookie. He was tough and smart. And that's where I got to… pic.twitter.com/sldZGgjlvQ
— RedWave Press (@RedWavePress) July 12, 2026
President Donald Trump reflected on his longtime friendship with the late Sen. Lindsey Graham during a conversation with CNN’s Jake Tapper, recalling how their relationship evolved from fierce political rivals into close allies. Trump described Graham as a “tough and smart” opponent during the 2016 Republican primary before praising his years of support in the Senate, calling him one of the administration’s most effective advocates. The president also highlighted Graham’s ability to work across party lines and resolve difficult political disputes, offering a personal look back at the bond they built after a hard-fought campaign.