Veteran US Senator Lindsey Graham, a senior Republican lawmaker from South Carolina and one of President Donald Trump’s closest political allies, has died at the age of 71 following what his office described as a “brief and sudden illness.”
His office announced the news in a statement posted on his official X account, saying Graham passed away on the evening of Saturday, July 11.
“Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period,” the statement said.
President Donald Trump led tributes to the longtime senator, describing him as one of the finest public servants he had known.
“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. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
Graham built a political career spanning more than three decades. He was first elected to the US House of Representatives in 1994 before winning a seat in the US Senate in 2002. He secured re-election in 2008, 2014 and 2020, becoming one of the Republican Party’s most recognizable voices on national security, foreign policy and defense issues.
Most recently, Graham served as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, where he played a leading role in debates over federal spending and fiscal policy.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster described Graham as an irreplaceable figure in both state and national politics.
“The fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America, and a loyal and steadfast friend,” McMaster wrote in a tribute posted on X.
Throughout his Senate career, Graham was known for his strong support of Israel and his hard-line positions on security matters involving Iran and the Middle East. His foreign policy views made him one of the most influential Republican lawmakers on international affairs.
Israeli leaders were among the first international figures to express condolences following news of his death.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog said he was “shocked and heartbroken” by the loss of a longtime ally.
“Senator Graham was a beacon of moral clarity and a true leader of the U.S.-Israel partnership,” Herzog said in a statement shared on X.
“We will never forget how he stood by the people of Israel in our most difficult moments, and we will remain eternally grateful for his sense of justice, truth, and loyalty. The people of Israel mourn his loss, and I will miss my great friend very dearly.”
Graham remained an influential figure in Washington until his death, maintaining close ties with Republican leadership and continuing to play a prominent role in shaping debates on national security, defense and foreign policy. His passing marks the end of a long congressional career that left a significant impact on American politics and international relations.
