“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!!!
Back to stories
Sen. Lindsey Graham Dies at 71, Drawing Bipartisan Tributes
July 12, 2026
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) died the night of Saturday, July 11, 2026, at his Capitol Hill residence in Washington, DC, after emergency personnel responded to a cardiac arrest call. His office confirmed the death early Sunday, July 12, attributing it to a "brief and sudden illness." He was 71. A preliminary report from the DC medical examiner gave the cause as aortic dissection due to heart disease. Graham was first elected to the Senate in 2002 after four terms in the House, and had become one of President Trump's closest Senate allies after years as a leading foreign-policy hawk and ally of the late Sen. John McCain. His death drew tributes from across the political spectrum and from foreign leaders including Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Benjamin Netanyahu, and left Senate Republicans with a vacancy in a chamber where their majority is narrow.
9
Statements Recorded
See what your representatives said?
9 Statements
“Jill and I are shocked by the sudden passing of Lindsey Graham. Lindsey and I served together in Congress for over a decade, and worked closely on many issues throughout the years.
“A one-of-a-kind figure in our politics. I couldn't help but like him.
“He was full of wit, energy, and charm, and he cared deeply about the Senate.
“He believed and advocated tirelessly for American strength and exceptionalism.
“Lindsey Graham was irreplaceable.
“A man who loved his work, his country, and his family.
“His commitment to public service and the people he represented will remain an enduring part of his legacy.
“The fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America — and a loyal and steadfast friend. We shall not see his likes again.