Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., died Saturday evening following a "brief and sudden" illness, according to a statement from his office.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., died Saturday evening following a "brief and sudden" illness, according to a statement from his office. He was 71.
"On the evening of Saturday, July 11, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness," his office said.
"Senator Graham's family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period," it continued.
DEM GOVERNOR ESCALATES MCCONNELL HEALTH DEMANDS, CITES RESPONSE TO PAST TRUMP HEALTH CONCERNS
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., died Saturday at age 71 following a "brief and sudden" illness, ending 23 years of service in the U.S. Senate and more than three decades in politics. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
President Donald Trump reacted to Graham's death, calling the longtime South Carolina senator a "true American Patriot."
"Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead!" Trump posted on Truth Social. "He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!! DETAILS AND ARRANGEMENTS TO FOLLOW. So sad!"
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster released a statement early Sunday morning expressing that he is "devastated" by the news of Graham's passing.
"Peggy and I – and our children – are devastated," he said in a statement. "Lindsey Graham is irreplaceable. The fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America – and a loyal and steadfast friend. We grieve with Darline, his family and his developed staff. May God hold him gently in the palm of his hand. We shall not see his likes again."
Graham was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2002 and won reelection three times. He was seeking a fifth S
