US Sen. Lindsey Graham has died after a brief and unexpected illness, his office says
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham has died at age 71 following a brief and sudden illness. A prominent Republican figure, Graham was known for his hawkish foreign policy and his evolving relationship with former President Donald Trump.
Why it matters
The death of a long-serving U.S. Senator has significant implications for legislative balance and foreign policy discourse in Washington.
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham died Saturday evening after a "brief and sudden illness," his office said in statement posted on social media.
The office did not provide any additional details about the South Carolina Republican, who was 71 years old.
"Senator Graham's family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period," the statement said.
Graham was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2002 and was running for a fifth term. He had been a close ally of President Donald Trump and a longtime hawk on Iran.
As a member of the U.S. House in the 1990s, he backed policies aimed at isolating the country and limiting its missile and nuclear programs.
He also cheered on Trump's decision to strike nuclear sites last year and had been been a supporter of the latest conflict that started a few months ago.
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