Long-serving South Carolina Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, 71, died early Sunday from a brief and sudden illness, according to NBC News, stunning the political establishment and President Donald Trump.
Emergency responders were dispatched to Graham’s Capitol Hill residence Saturday night after receiving a call reporting possible cardiac arrest, according to police scanner audio obtained by NBC News. Paramedics were photographed transporting an individual on a stretcher from the home to a waiting ambulance, with police vehicles and fire trucks present at the scene.
A senior Graham aide told NBC News early Sunday that there had been no indication the senator was experiencing health problems before his death. “Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period,” his family said in a statement.
Trump and Political Leaders React
President Trump announced Graham’s passing on Truth Social, writing: “Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working, and was a true American Patriot.”
Senate Majority Leader John Thune called Graham “a strong advocate for the United States and a strong ally to freedom-loving countries across the globe.” South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster described him as “the fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America-and a loyal and steadfast friend.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Graham was “a true defender of freedom and of the values that make our world safer,” noting he had visited Ukraine 10 times since Russia’s 2022 invasion. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu added: “Israel has lost one of its greatest friends. America has lost a great patriot. I have lost a beloved friend.”
Graham’s Senate Role and Legacy
Graham was serving as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee and had been running for a fifth six-year term scheduled for November. He was one of the chamber’s most recognizable members and a leading voice within the Republican Party on defense and foreign policy issues.
Just days before his death, Graham had traveled to Kyiv, where he met Friday with Zelenskyy to discuss initiatives aimed at strengthening sanctions against Russia and bringing the war closer to peace.
Per South Carolina law, Gov. McMaster will appoint someone to fill Graham’s seat until January 3, 2027. State election law is expected to require a special primary by August 11 for Republicans to select a new nominee for the general election.
What’s Next
Graham’s death comes as fellow Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky continues to recover in the hospital after emergency responders were dispatched to a residence linked to the senator last month following a report of cardiac arrest. McConnell’s office has released few details about his condition.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Health and Politics teams contributed to this report.
