He said the current political and media polarization “makes it harder for a figure like Graham to emerge.”For some of the presidents he advised, Graham offered more than just prayers, support and photo opportunities. Depending on the White House occupant and the era, he was a friend, negotiator and shrewd political adviser. After Truman left the White House, he received Graham at his home in Independence, Missouri, according to Graham’s website. His close friendship with Nixon began in the late 1950s, before the Republican landed in the White House. Graham rolled with it, replying, “I am when I’m not playing with the president of the United States.” But Graham and Kennedy were never close.

Source: National Post February 22, 2018 01:50 UTC