Key facts
- Senator Lindsey Graham died at age 71 from an aortic dissection, a tear in the inner wall of the aorta.
- The aortic dissection was related to Graham's hardening of the arteries.
- A final cause of death will be determined after toxicological and microscopic tests.
- Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, had served in Congress for over three decades.
- Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary replacement for Graham.
- A special primary election will be held on August 11 to select a new Republican nominee for Graham's seat.
Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent Republican from South Carolina and a close ally of President Donald Trump, has died at the age of 71 following an aortic dissection, according to a preliminary finding by the medical examiner. The tear in the inner wall of his aorta was linked to his hardening of the arteries. A final cause of death will be determined after further testing.
Graham, who had just celebrated his birthday, served in Congress for over three decades, including time in the House of Representatives and more than 20 years in the Senate. He was known for his strong stance on foreign policy and national security, and his evolving relationship with President Trump.
Following Graham's death, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary replacement. A special primary election is scheduled for August 11 to select a new Republican nominee for Graham's seat, with the winner of the November general election to serve a full six-year term starting in January. This special election will fill the vacancy created by Graham's passing.
Graham's political career included a significant shift in his relationship with Donald Trump. Initially a vocal critic of Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign, Graham later became one of his staunchest supporters in Congress. He played a key role in advocating for Trump's policies, particularly in foreign affairs, and served as a defender during Trump's impeachment trials. Graham also previously served as a prosecutor in the impeachment trial of President Bill Clinton.