The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) mourns the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham, a devoted public servant and one of Congress’ most steadfast champions for freedom and democracy around the world.
Throughout his distinguished career in public service, Senator Graham defended those resisting tyranny and advanced democratic principles while standing firm with those who refused to surrender their freedom.
“Senator Graham understood that America’s leadership in support of freedom is both a moral responsibility and in our nation’s national and strategic interests,” said Peter Roskam, Chairman of the National Endowment for Democracy’s Board of Directors. “His unwavering commitment to those fighting for liberty and human dignity around the world leaves an enduring legacy, and we honor his memory by continuing that vital work.”
“Across decades of public service, Senator Graham never lost sight of the people around the world risking everything for freedom,” said Damon Wilson, President and CEO of the National Endowment for Democracy. “Senator Graham understood the stakes of the struggle between freedom and tyranny, and he met that moment with conviction and resolve. As a fellow South Carolinian, I am especially saddened by his passing. Those of us privileged to carry forward this mission will remember him with gratitude and appreciation, and will honor his legacy by continuing the work he so passionately championed.”
Senator Graham also served on the Board of Directors of the International Republican Institute, one of NED’s four Core Institutes. In that role, he remained a steadfast supporter of democratic movements and of those striving to live in freedom around the world. His commitment to advancing democracy and supporting those who defend it leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire NED’s work.
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NED is a private, nonprofit foundation dedicated to advancing freedom and democracy worldwide. Established in 1983 as part of President Reagan’s vision to foster an “infrastructure of democracy” with a bipartisan Congressional mandate, NED supports grassroots leaders striving for the freedom to think, speak, worship, engage politically, and support their families without fear. It mobilizes key pillars of American democracy, from political parties to business and labor, to support their counterparts abroad through the Core institutes that form the NED family: the International Republican Institute, the National Democratic Institute, the Center for International Private Enterprise, and the Solidarity Center.
