U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a long-serving Republican representative for South Carolina, died Saturday at his home in Washington D.C. at age 71. According to his office, medical examiners conducted preliminary investigations and concluded the senator likely died from an aortic dissection caused by atherosclerosis, as reported by the Associated Press.
The Career and Final Days of Senator Lindsey Graham
First elected to the Senate in 2003, Lindsey Graham became a prominent figure in American politics, particularly regarding foreign policy. His legislative work was defined by a strong commitment to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and consistent support for Ukraine. Graham’s final official act was a visit to Ukraine, his tenth since the 2022 Russian invasion, from which he had just returned to Washington D.C. prior to his passing.
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Before his death, Graham had been scheduled to appear on NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday, a slot eventually filled by President Donald Trump.
Political Alliances and the Trump Relationship
Graham’s relationship with Donald Trump was marked by significant volatility. During the 2016 presidential primaries, Graham was a vocal critic, at one point labeling Trump “unfit to serve” after the candidate disparaged the late Senator John McCain’s record as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. However, following Trump’s 2016 victory, the two formed a close alliance, frequently playing golf together and aligning on key policy issues.
The alliance faced a major test following the January 6, 2021, storming of the U.S. Capitol. In a Senate speech that evening, Graham declared “enough is enough” and publicly urged the president to acknowledge his role in the violence. Despite this, the political rupture was temporary; within weeks, the two were seen together at Mar-a-Lago, effectively restoring their partnership, according to AP reporting.
International Reactions to the Senator’s Passing
The death of the senator drew tributes from both domestic and international leaders. Donald Trump described Graham as being “like a family member,” noting that he had spoken to the senator by phone just hours before his death while Graham was returning from Ukraine. The White House has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in his honor.
International figures also acknowledged the senator’s influence. Jens Stoltenberg, former NATO Secretary General and current Norwegian Finance Minister, expressed “deep sorrow” on X, citing Graham’s “tireless commitment to NATO and transatlantic cooperation.” Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide similarly noted he would miss the “many good conversations” he had held with the senator over the years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the official cause of death?
According to Senator Graham’s office, preliminary findings suggest he died from an aortic dissection brought on by atherosclerosis.
How long did Lindsey Graham serve in the Senate?
Graham was first elected to represent South Carolina in the U.S. Senate in 2003.
What was Graham’s position on the war in Ukraine?
Graham was a vocal advocate for Ukraine and had visited the country ten times since the full-scale Russian invasion began in 2022.
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