WASHINGTON () — U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, has passed away after a brief and unexpected illness, according to his office.
In a statement released on Sunday, Graham’s office confirmed that he died on Saturday evening, July 11.
The Graham family is requesting privacy and prayers as they navigate their loss.
Lindsey Graham had been serving South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since 2003. At the time of his passing, he held the position of chairman of the Senate Budget Committee and was campaigning for a fifth six-year term in the upcoming November elections.
Graham was well-regarded in the Senate, particularly as a prominent voice on issues related to defense and foreign policy.
Graham had recently returned from a trip to Kyiv, Ukraine, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday.
He was 71 years old.
Governor Henry McMaster issued the following statement on Senator Lindsey Graham’s passing:
“Peggy and I—and our children—are devastated. Lindsey Graham is irreplaceable. The fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America—and a loyal and steadfast friend. We grieve with Darline, his family and his devoted staff. May God hold him gently in the palm of his hand. We shall not see his likes again.”