US Senator Lindsey Graham passes away at 71

Published: July 12, 2026, 12:45 pm

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent figure in the Republican party and a key ally of Donald Trump, has died following a brief and sudden illness. His office announced the passing in the early hours of Sunday, noting that the senator had recently turned 71.

In an official statement, his office confirmed: “On the evening of Saturday, July 11, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness. Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period.”

Graham’s death is expected to have a significant impact on both the Republican party and the political landscape in Washington. A retired air force reserve colonel who previously worked as a military lawyer, Graham had represented South Carolina in the Senate since 2003.

Throughout his long career, he earned a reputation as a foreign policy hawk, consistently supporting the Iraq war and advocating for military action in Iran. His political trajectory was notable for his transition from a sharp critic of Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential primary to becoming one of the former president’s most loyal and vocal defenders on Capitol Hill during recent conflicts.