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According to NBC News, longtime Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has died at the age of 71 after what his office described as a “brief and sudden illness.” The veteran lawmaker passed away Saturday evening, according to a statement released by his office early Sunday morning.
The statement said Graham’s family is grateful for the prayers and support they have received while asking for privacy during this difficult time.
Graham served in the U.S. Senate for more than two decades after first being elected in 2002 and taking office in 2003. During his time in Washington, he became one of the Republican Party’s most recognizable lawmakers and played a leading role on issues involving national security, defense, foreign policy, and the federal budget.
At the time of his passing, Graham was serving as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee and was seeking another six-year term in office. Throughout his career, he remained an influential voice on Capitol Hill and frequently participated in debates on major domestic and international issues.
In recent years, Graham developed a close political alliance with President Donald Trump. Although the two occasionally disagreed during Trump’s first presidential campaign, they later became close allies and regularly worked together on key legislative and policy priorities.
According to NBC News, emergency responders were dispatched to Graham’s Capitol Hill residence Saturday night after receiving a report of a cardiac arrest. Police scanner audio obtained by the network indicated that first responders arrived at the home shortly after the emergency call.
NBC News also reported that photographs reviewed by the outlet showed paramedics transporting an individual on a stretcher from Graham’s residence to a waiting ambulance. Police vehicles and fire department personnel were also present at the scene.
Just one day before his death, Graham had traveled to Kyiv, Ukraine, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the ongoing conflict and continued U.S. support for Ukraine. He had also been scheduled to appear on NBC’s Meet the Press on Sunday.
A Career That Spanned Decades
Born in Central, South Carolina, Graham built a long career in public service before becoming one of the Senate’s most prominent members. Over the years, he served on several influential committees and became well known for his work involving military affairs, judicial nominations, intelligence matters, and international relations.
His outspoken style and active role in foreign policy debates made him a familiar face on national television and a significant figure in congressional discussions for many years.
Senate Health Concerns Continue
Graham’s death comes as concerns remain over the health of another senior Republican senator.
Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky continues to recover after being hospitalized following a medical emergency last month. His office has stated that he is improving but has released few additional details regarding his condition.
The two developments have drawn renewed attention to the health of longtime members of Congress as lawmakers continue to debate major legislative priorities.
Tributes Expected From Across Washington
Political leaders from both parties are expected to release statements honoring Graham’s decades of public service and his contributions to the Senate. Funeral arrangements and additional details have not yet been announced.
As one of the Senate’s longest-serving Republican members, Graham leaves behind a legislative legacy that included work on national defense, foreign affairs, judicial appointments, and fiscal policy. His influence on American politics spanned more than 30 years in Congress and made him one of the most recognizable figures in Washington.
This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided in the near future.
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