WASHINGTON — Tributes poured in from across the United States and abroad on Sunday following the death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, with political leaders, allies and foreign officials highlighting the South Carolina Republican's decades-long influence on U.S. foreign policy and national politics.
Graham, 71, died on Saturday evening after what his office described as a "brief and sudden illness." His office did not immediately release additional details and said his family had requested privacy during the mourning period.
President Donald Trump led the public tributes, calling Graham "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known" and describing him as "a true American Patriot" in a social media statement. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster also praised Graham's public service, saying the state had lost a dedicated servant whose career spanned more than three decades.
Members of Congress from both Republican and Democratic parties offered condolences, recognizing Graham's long tenure in the Senate, where he became one of the chamber's most prominent voices on national security, judicial appointments and foreign affairs. While lawmakers frequently disagreed with him on policy, many acknowledged his willingness to work across party lines at various points in his career and his enduring influence on Senate debates.
International leaders also paid tribute, reflecting Graham's active role in overseas diplomacy and security issues. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described him as a steadfast supporter of Ukraine, noting his repeated visits to the country and advocacy for continued U.S. assistance. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and leaders from several European countries praised Graham's longstanding support for the transatlantic alliance and European security. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remembered him as a loyal friend of Israel and a strong advocate of the U.S.-Israel relationship.
Graham represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since 2003 after serving four terms in the House of Representatives. Over his career, he established himself as a leading Republican voice on defense and foreign policy, military affairs and the federal judiciary. In recent years, he was among Trump's closest allies in Congress while continuing to play a visible role in international security issues.
His office said funeral arrangements and additional information would be announced at a later date. Under South Carolina law, the governor is expected to appoint an interim senator until a successor is chosen under the state's election procedures.
