United States Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), 71, died on Saturday evening from a brief and sudden illness, his office announced.
The senator’s family requested privacy during this “incredibly difficult period” and expressed gratitude for prayers, according to the statement.
President Donald Trump described Graham as “a true American Patriot,” stating he would be “greatly missed.” Trump also noted that he had spoken with Graham on Saturday evening after the senator returned from a trip to Ukraine, adding it could have been Graham’s last call.
Emergency responders were called to Graham’s home for what was reported as a cardiac arrest.
Graham served in the U.S. Senate since 2003 and won his state’s Republican primary for reelection in June. His Democratic opponent, Dr. Annie Andrews, extended condolences, emphasizing Graham’s decades of service to South Carolina. Vice President JD Vance noted they had disagreements but “couldn’t help but like him,” highlighting Graham’s humble origins and rise as a powerful lawmaker. Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania also praised Graham as a foreign policy giant who was “kind, gracious, and thoughtful.”
