Rev. Billy Graham statue replaces divisive NC governor

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – The late Reverend Billy Graham is getting a special spot in the U.S. Capitol. On Thursday, leaders unveiled a new statue of the famous North Carolina evangelist during a dedication ceremony.

The larger-than-life legacy of Rev. Billy Graham now has a seven-foot-tall bronze statue to match.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) was among those in attendance at the unveiling of the statue.

“Billy Graham finally takes his rightful place on these hallowed grounds of American democracy,” Johnson said.

The statue pays tribute to the famous reverend and recognizes his impact on both faith and politics.

“The Reverend Graham was known as a minister to millions, the pastor to presidents,” North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper said.

Each state gets two statues. The new Graham sculpture will represent his home state of North Carolina.

It replaces a statue of the late former North Carolina Governor Charles Aycock, which has drawn controversy because of Aycock’s ties to white supremacy.

Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) praised the new statue.

“It’s our hope that we as lawmakers as we come and go and his visitors passed by the statue here of Billy Graham that we’re reminded of his ministry and what he preached,” Budd said.

“I believe that his presence here in the Capitol can help us find opportunities to unite around what makes our nation great,” Tillis said.

Graham’s son, Rev. Franklin Graham, says his family is honored.

“Our Earthly father will be here in this capital, pointing the future generations to our Heavenly Father,” Graham said.

An artist from Charlotte created the sculpture. The base of it is inscribed with Bible verses.

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