Graham consistently denied being gay

Graham’s political record unfolded alongside years of speculation about his sexual orientation, often expressed through homophobic jokes, insinuations, and attacks.

Graham, who never married and had no children, consistently denied that he was gay. His unmarried status was not evidence of his sexual orientation.

In 2018, after comedian Chelsea Handler posted a crude insinuation about him, Graham responded directly. “To the extent that it matters, I’m not gay,” he said, criticizing Handler’s comments as unhelpful to the country.

The speculation intensified in June 2020 after adult-film performer Sean Harding posted allegations involving an unnamed Republican senator. Social media users identified the senator as Graham, and the nicknames “Lady G” and “Lady Graham” began trending.