President Donald Trump on Saturday evening paid tribute to his close political ally, US Senator Lindsey Graham, who died unexpectedly at age 71. Graham's office announced his death in the early hours of Sunday, stating the senator "passed away from a brief and sudden illness." Reports indicated a 911 call for "cardiac arrest" was placed from Graham's residence around 8:30 p.m., though an official cause of death has not been confirmed.
Trump shared his condolences on his Truth Social platform, calling Graham "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known." He described the senator as "always working" and a "true American Patriot" who would be "greatly missed."
Graham, who represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since 2002, was a staunch ally of Trump, consistently voting to support the president's agenda. He also advised Trump on foreign policy matters, particularly concerning Russia and Iran, and was a supporter of Ukraine and Israel.
In March 2025, Trump posted a lengthy endorsement of Graham, referring to him as "a wonderful friend." The endorsement, still pinned on Graham's official X account, highlighted Graham's efforts as Chair of the Senate Budget Committee to "Grow the Economy, Lower Taxes, and Eliminate Government Waste." Trump also noted Graham's focus on border security, military support, American energy, the Second Amendment, and "PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH."
Graham, in response to the endorsement, expressed pride in being present at the beginning of Trump's "greatest political comeback in American history." He also spoke of their personal friendship, calling Trump "an awesome golfing buddy."
Graham's death follows a recent visit to Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss the ongoing Russian invasion. During the trip, Graham announced an agreement with Trump to advance bipartisan legislation targeting countries buying Russian energy, aiming to increase pressure on Moscow. This visit was understood to be his last public appearance, with no known health concerns prior.
Condolences also came from international leaders. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Graham as "one of Israel's greatest friends" and "a great patriot" who understood the inseparable security of Israel and America. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky mourned Graham as "a staunch advocate for bipartisan and bicameral support for Ukraine" and thanked him for recognizing the courage of Ukraine's defenders.
Former President George W. Bush also released a statement expressing sadness, calling Graham a "knowledgeable senator" who understood international engagement and a "kind and funny man" who loved his country. Bush noted Graham's service to South Carolina and their personal acquaintance.
Graham's career included a 1994 election to the House of Representatives. He served in the United States Air Force, including active duty as an Air Force lawyer and a stint in the Air Force reserves, retiring as a Colonel in June 2015. He also served in the Air National Guard and was called to active duty during the Gulf War. Born in July 1955, Graham was the first in his family to attend college, earning undergraduate and law degrees from the University of South Carolina. He was a practicing Baptist.