President Donald Trump’s tweets reveal an enduring respect for Reverend Billy Graham since at least 2012.
Graham passed away Wednesday at the age of 99 from natural causes. The president’s first tweet about the reverend praised him for his work on behalf of former Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney:
Rev.@BillyGraham is doing tremendous work this election cycle educating the Christian community on @MittRomney.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 19, 2012
The President quoted Graham at different points through 2013 and the 2016 presidential campaign with inspirational messages.
“Read the Bible. Work hard and honestly. And don’t complain.” – Rev. @BillyGraham
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 7, 2013
“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” – Rev. @BillyGraham
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 18, 2012
“God never takes away something from your life without replacing it with something better.” –Rev. @BillyGraham
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 3, 2013
Trump also tweeted enthusiastically about Graham’s birthdays since 2013.
Honored to be attending Rev. @BillyGraham’s 95th birthday. His life & work has brought hope & faith to millions worldwide.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 18, 2013
Happy Birthday to the great @BillyGraham. He’s done so many wonderful things, not the least of which is his fantastic family. I love Billy!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 6, 2015
Franklin, such a great photo.
HAPPY 99th BIRTHDAY to your father, @BillyGraham! https://t.co/l0c7RvvOa1
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 7, 2017