Lindsey Graham, Key Trump Ally, Dies After Sudden Illness

Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent figure in U.S. foreign policy and a key ally of Donald Trump, has died after a “brief and sudden illness,” according to his office. He was 71.

The announcement made late Saturday offered no further details about the South Carolina Republican's condition. His family requested privacy during this difficult time.

Trump expressed his sorrow on social media early Sunday, calling Graham “one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known.” He emphasized Graham’s dedication to his work and patriotism, stating, “Lindsey will be greatly missed!!!”

Senate Majority Leader John Thune shared his condolences, stating that his heart was heavy upon learning of Graham's passing. Thune praised Graham as a strong advocate for the United States and freedom-loving nations worldwide.

Graham was influential in shaping U.S. foreign policy and had recently returned from Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Just days before his death, he announced an agreement with the Trump administration regarding new sanctions against Russia.

As chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, Graham played a crucial role during Trump’s second term, overseeing significant legislation passed along party lines while Republicans held a narrow majority in the Senate.

Under South Carolina law, Republican Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary replacement for Graham, who was campaigning for a fifth term in November.

Graham entered the Senate in 2002 after serving in the House and was known for advocating robust military interventionism and national defense policies. His stance often put him at odds with the isolationist faction within the Republican Party.

Initially critical of Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign, Graham’s relationship with the former president evolved significantly after Trump took office. He became one of Trump’s most vocal supporters, frequently engaging with him and even joining him on the golf course.

In a 2018 interview, Graham explained his shift in support by referencing lessons learned from his late friend John McCain about moving forward after elections and supporting the president.

Despite briefly breaking with Trump following the January 6 Capitol attack, Graham returned to support him during his second term.

Graham’s commitment to foreign policy was evident in his frequent travels to meet world leaders. Zelenskyy noted that Graham visited Ukraine ten times since Russia's invasion began, calling him “a true defender of freedom.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mourned Graham’s death, highlighting his unwavering support for Israel and the U.S.-Israel alliance. Netanyahu stated that America lost a great patriot and Israel lost one of its greatest friends.

As chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, Graham oversaw reconciliation processes that allowed Republicans to pass significant policies without facing Democratic filibusters. He previously led the Senate Judiciary Committee during the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court in 2020.

Graham was also involved in crafting a comprehensive immigration reform bill in 2013 that passed the Senate but failed to advance in the House. His views on immigration sometimes put him at odds with factions within his party.

In June, Graham won 57% of the GOP primary vote and was set to face Democrat Annie Andrews in November. Following his death, South Carolina law mandates a special primary to select a new nominee within weeks.

The sparse statement from Graham’s office regarding his death has raised concerns about transparency regarding lawmakers' health issues. Recent instances include Rep. Tom Kean Jr.'s absence due to undisclosed health reasons and Mitch McConnell's hospitalization for unknown issues.

Governor McMaster described Graham as “irreplaceable,” praising him as a fierce fighter for South Carolina and America. He expressed that Graham’s absence would leave a significant void.

Graham never married and had no children. His closest living relative is his sister Darline Graham Nordone, whom he helped raise after their parents passed away.