WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, one of President Donald Trump’s closest allies in Congress and one of the Senate’s most recognizable voices on national security and foreign policy, has died following what his office described as a “brief and sudden illness.” He was 71 years old.

In a statement released Saturday evening, Graham’s office confirmed his passing but did not disclose the cause of death. His family requested privacy while expressing appreciation for the prayers and support they have received.

President Donald Trump announced the senator’s death early Sunday morning on social media, calling Graham “one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known.” Trump praised Graham’s tireless work ethic and described him as “a true American patriot,” adding that funeral arrangements would be announced at a later time.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune also paid tribute, saying Graham dedicated his life to serving both the United States military and the nation in Congress. Thune highlighted Graham’s commitment to America’s role on the world stage and his support for democratic allies around the globe.

A Career Spanning More Than Three Decades

After serving in the U.S. House of Representatives during the 1990s, Graham was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2002. During his Senate career he became one of the Republican Party’s leading voices on defense, foreign policy, and national security.

Although Graham was initially a vocal critic of Donald Trump during the 2016 Republican presidential primary, the two later developed a close political and personal relationship. Graham became one of Trump’s most trusted advisers on international affairs and frequently consulted with the president on issues involving Russia, Iran, Ukraine, and the Middle East.

Just days before his death, Graham announced progress on a new sanctions package targeting Russia and had recently returned from another visit to Ukraine, where President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked him for his continued support.

Longtime Foreign Policy Leader

Throughout his congressional career, Graham consistently advocated for a strong American military presence overseas and robust support for U.S. allies.

He worked closely with the late Senator John McCain and former Senator Joe Lieberman, a trio often referred to as the “Three Amigos” because of their frequent international travel and shared support for an assertive U.S. foreign policy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also honored Graham’s legacy, calling him “a great friend of Israel” and praising his decades-long commitment to strengthening the U.S.-Israel alliance.

Leadership in the Senate

At the time of his death, Graham served as Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, where he played a major role in advancing Republican legislative priorities during President Trump’s second term.

He previously chaired the Senate Judiciary Committee, overseeing the confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett in 2020.

Graham also helped lead bipartisan immigration negotiations in 2013 as a member of the Senate’s “Gang of Eight.” While the legislation passed the Senate, it ultimately stalled in the House and never became law. His willingness to support certain immigration reforms occasionally put him at odds with parts of the Republican base.

Looking Ahead to Another Election

Earlier this year Graham defeated Republican primary challengers and was preparing for a November general election against Democratic nominee Annie Andrews. During his victory speech, Graham pledged to continue working alongside President Trump, saying he intended to help “change this world and change this country.”

Questions Remain

Graham’s office has not released additional information regarding the illness that led to his death, leaving questions unanswered about the circumstances surrounding his passing.

The announcement also comes during a period of increased public attention regarding transparency surrounding the health of members of Congress, following several recent high-profile medical absences involving lawmakers from both political parties.

Source: Associated Press

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