In brief
Lindsey Graham, a senior Republican and long‑time U.S. Senator from South Carolina, died on Saturday evening at age 71 from an aortic dissection linked to cardiovascular disease. The Washington DC medical examiner says the tear was the cause of death. The senator had just returned from Kyiv where he met President Zelensky, a meeting that underscored his interventionist approach to foreign policy. With the Senate now a narrow Republican majority, Graham’s absence could influence the balance of power at the November midterm election. Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary replacement until the seat is contested in the upcoming election.
Senator Lindsey Graham Dies After aortic Tear
Lindsey Graham, a senior Republican who served in the Senate from 2002 until his death, passed away on Saturday evening at age 71. A Washington DC medical examiner confirmed the cause of death as an aortic dissection linked to cardiovascular disease.
Graham had just returned from a trip to Kyiv, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky expressed deep sadness over the senator’s passing and praised him as a defender of freedom and shared values.
Known for his interventionist stance, Graham was a major proponent of U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts, including support for the war in Ukraine and strong opposition to Iran’s influence. He had previously criticised President Trump but later emerged as one of his main allies.
The Senate’s Republican majority, previously 53‑47, was narrowed by Graham’s death. Republicans and Democrats are both vying for control in the coming November elections. Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary senator to serve until the seat is filled in the midterms.
