U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the influential figures in American politics, has died. Graham’s office announced that the Republican senator passed away on the evening of Saturday, July 11, after a brief and sudden illness.
His office released a statement
In a statement released by Graham’s office, it was announced that “U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham passed away on the evening of Saturday, July 11, following a brief and sudden illness.”
The statement said Graham’s family appreciated prayers at this time and asked for privacy during an extremely difficult period.
No further details were immediately shared about the cause of death. However, a recording of an emergency call made to a residence belonging to the senator on Saturday evening mentioned a dispatch for cardiac arrest.
Trump pays tribute
U.S. President Donald Trump released a condolence message following Graham’s death. Trump described Graham as “one of the greatest people and senators” he had ever known.
“He was always working and was a true American patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed,” Trump said.
He had visited Ukraine before his death
Graham had been in Ukraine one day before his death, where he met President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky said he was deeply saddened by Graham’s death and drew attention to the senator’s visits to Ukraine during the war and his support for the country’s defense.
Condolences from Israel
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also released a tribute to Graham. “Israel has lost one of its greatest friends. America has lost a great patriot. I have lost a beloved friend,” Netanyahu said.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog said he was shocked and heartbroken to learn of Graham’s sudden passing.
He served in the Senate for many years
Lindsey Graham was born on July 9, 1955, in Central, South Carolina. He studied at the University of South Carolina and later earned his law degree from the same university. After serving in the military and working in private law practice, Graham entered politics and served in the South Carolina House of Representatives.
He was later elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing South Carolina’s Third District.
Elected to the Senate in 2002
Graham ran in 2002 for the Senate seat once held by Strom Thurmond and was elected to the U.S. Senate.
He won reelection in 2008 and 2014 by strong margins. In 2016, Graham ran for the Republican presidential nomination but ended his campaign before the primaries.
He became one of Trump’s strongest supporters
Although Graham was initially critical of Donald Trump and the rising Tea Party movement, he later became one of Trump’s closest political allies. Known for his hardline stance on foreign policy, Graham stood out especially for his hawkish views on Iran. U.S. media reports had claimed that Graham was among the figures who persuaded Trump to strike Iran. Graham was also known for his strong support for Zionism.
Interim appointment to be made for South Carolina seat
Graham’s death leaves South Carolina’s seat in the U.S. Senate vacant. Under South Carolina law, Republican Governor Henry McMaster will appoint an interim replacement for Graham’s seat. The appointed senator will serve until January 3, 2027.
A new senator for Graham’s seat will be elected in the midterm elections on November 3, 2026.
