WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina and one of President Donald Trump's closest allies in Congress, died after a brief and sudden illness, his office said. He was 71.
Graham's office announced his death in a statement, saying his family had requested privacy and offering no immediate additional details about the circumstances surrounding his death. Preliminary findings from the District of Columbia medical examiner later indicated he died from an aortic dissection associated with arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, according to officials.
A fixture in the Senate since 2003, Graham played a prominent role on national security and foreign policy issues and was a leading Republican voice on defense, judicial nominations and budget legislation. Once an outspoken critic of Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign, he later became one of the president's strongest allies and an influential supporter of the administration's legislative agenda.
President Trump paid tribute to Graham, calling him a close friend and praising his years of public service. Other lawmakers from both parties also issued statements honoring his decades in Congress.
Under South Carolina law, Governor Henry McMaster is responsible for appointing an interim replacement until a special election is held to fill the remainder of the term. State officials have begun the succession process.
Further details regarding memorial arrangements and the transition of Graham's Senate seat were still being announced as of publication, and officials said additional information would be released as it becomes available.
