Senator Lindsey Graham Passes Away
UPDATE: 5:06 PM: Senator Lindsey Graham’s office has confirmed his unexpected passing, following an initial examination by the Washington, D.C., Medical Examiner’s Office.
“The preliminary findings indicate: Aortic Dissection due to Arteriosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease,” the statement said. “The death certificate will remain PENDING until all toxicological and microscopic testing is completed, at which point it will be updated to reflect the cause and manner of death.”
11:38 AM: President Donald Trump announced that flags will be flown at half-staff nationwide to honor Graham, who died on Saturday.
“In tribute to the remarkable life of Senator Lindsey Graham, a dear friend and a genuinely great man, I am ordering that all American Flags be lowered to Half Mast until Saturday evening at 6 P.M. GOD BLESS YOU LINDSEY!” Trump shared on Truth Social.
Graham, a long-time South Carolina Senator, was known for his influence in foreign policy and as a strong ally of Trump, despite his run for the 2016 Republican presidential primary.
He held several significant positions, including chairman of the Senate Budget Committee.
According to state law, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary replacement to complete Graham’s term.
Reportedly, candidates can begin filing for the election to replace Graham on July 21st, with a special Republican primary scheduled for August 11th.
Just last month, Graham secured the Republican nomination for reelection and was set to compete against Democrat candidate Annie Andrews in the upcoming general election.
8:30 AM: Senator Graham has died “from a brief and sudden illness,” as per his office’s announcement.
At 71 years old, Graham passed away on Saturday night.
“Senator Graham’s family appreciates your prayers and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement noted.
Many lawmakers expressed their condolences, including Trump, who called Graham “a true American Patriot” in a post on Truth Social.
“Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working, and he was a true American Patriot,” Trump stated. “Lindsey will be greatly missed!!!”
During a Sunday morning interview on NBC’s “Meet The Press,” Trump recalled a call with Graham that occurred shortly before his passing, noting Graham had just returned from Ukraine.
“It’s strange because I got a call last night, and he sounded a little tired, but he was perfect. We thought maybe we would meet today, and then that was it,” Trump reflected, visibly shaken. “I just can’t believe it.”
Trump emphasized honoring Graham’s legacy, diverting the discussion away from other topics.
“I want to honor the life of Lindsey Graham, so I don’t want to talk about it,” he said when prompted about Iran.
Emergency responders reportedly responded to a call for “cardiac arrest” at Graham’s residence on Saturday night.
Having served in the Senate since 2003, Graham had recently won his state’s Republican primary for reelection in June.
His opponent, Dr. Annie Andrews, released a statement urging constituents to recognize Graham’s service to South Carolina, beyond any political divides.
“My deepest condolences are with Senator Lindsey Graham’s family, friends, and his devoted staff. He was a man of faith who proudly served our nation as a JAG officer and Air Force colonel,” she expressed.
Vice President JD Vance also paid tribute, recalling their differences but overall expressing admiration for Graham.
“Lindsey Graham’s story is fundamentally American. He fought vigorously for his beliefs and was equally willing to support others when needed,” Vance said.
Senator John Fetterman from Pennsylvania also shared condolences, remarking on Graham’s contributions to foreign policy and his personal kindness.
“The United States Senate lost a foreign policy giant. My sincere condolences go out to his family, friends, and staff,” Fetterman noted.
