U.S. Senators John McCain, Lindsey Graham, and Joe Lieberman, known as the “Three Amigos”
WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 12, 2026) – McCain Institute Chairman Emeritus Amb. Cindy McCain today issued the following statement regarding the passing of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham:
“My heart is broken. Lindsey was one of my dearest friends, a brother in service, and a cherished member of our ‘Three Amigos.’ Through the years, we shared countless conversations, challenges, laughs, and memories that I will carry with me forever. I am grateful beyond words for his friendship and for the privilege of serving alongside him. Lindsey loved this country deeply and devoted his life to it. He faced every challenge with courage, conviction, and an unwavering belief in America. But beyond his public service, I will miss the man himself—his loyalty, his humor, and the bond we shared. The world feels a little smaller without him. He will be missed more than words can express.”
For more than two decades, Senator Graham and Senator McCain worked together to promote their shared belief in American global leadership, a strong national defense, and freedom and democracy around the world – especially in Ukraine. Along with Senator Joe Lieberman, they became known as the “Three Amigos,” a bipartisan group who traveled to conflict zones around the world and were among the most influential voices on national security and foreign policy. Senator Graham remained a long-time friend of the McCain Institute, supporting its mission to advance character-driven leadership, strengthen democracy, and promote a world that is free, safe, and just.