Bob Graham, a beloved former US senator and two-term Democratic governor known as one of Florida’s most admired politicians, has passed away at the age of 87. In a statement shared by his daughter on Tuesday, the family expressed deep sorrow at the loss of “a visionary leader, dedicated public servant, and cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.”
Graham’s life was dedicated to serving others, with nearly four decades of public service in Florida, from the state legislature to the governor’s office, and later in Washington as a US senator. During his three terms in the Senate, he notably chaired the Senate Intelligence Committee and played a pivotal role in the congressional investigation into the September 11 terrorist attacks. He was also instrumental in crafting sections of the 2001 Patriot Act aimed at enhancing intelligence sharing between US domestic and foreign agencies.
He emerged as a vocal critic of George W. Bush’s approach to Iraq, arguing that the Republican president’s focus should have been on homeland security and combating terrorist organizations like al Qaeda, rather than the war in Iraq, which he believed was initiated under false pretenses. He notably voted against authorizing military force against Iraq in 2002.
During his time in Congress, he often wore ties featuring images of Florida and meticulously documented his daily activities in a diary. As a Democrat who had never lost an election in the crucial swing state of Florida, Graham was considered as a potential running mate for Democratic presidential candidates Bill Clinton and Al Gore.
However, his appearance in a Jimmy Buffett music video for “Who’s the Blonde Stranger,” portraying an adulterous husband, may have hindered his chances of being on the 1998 Democratic ticket with Michael Dukakis, according to Time magazine.
Graham clarified to the magazine that the video’s content wasn’t the issue. “They were concerned I hadn’t listed any payment on my financial disclosure form,” he explained. “But Jimmy never paid me a dime.”
Graham sought the 2004 Democratic presidential nomination to challenge Bush but withdrew from the race due to insufficient funds and organization compared to the other nine Democratic candidates. His late entry into the race, partly due to heart surgery to replace a deteriorating valve, also hindered his campaign.
“He embodied a rare blend of public achievements and personal qualities that made him unforgettable. As his family, we will forever cherish his love for us, for Florida, for the United States, and for the world, as well as the affection so many showed him. We thank God for the blessing of his life,” stated the family. Public figures and officials from both parties paid tribute to the former senator on Tuesday evening. Florida GOP Senator Rick Scott praised Graham’s dedication to Florida, stating, “His legacy will endure, not because of his titles, but because of the positive impact he had on Florida and the lives of its residents.”
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi described Graham as a “patriotic American” and outstanding senator. “He led and chaired the Congressional Joint Inquiry into 9/11, and he boldly opposed U.S. participation in the Iraq War.” Pelosi said, praising Graham’s commitment to his family and Florida during his Senate tenure.