Lindsey Graham, key ally of Donald Trump, dies after sudden illness, his office says

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a significant figure in Republican politics and a close ally of former President Donald Trump, has died after a brief and sudden illness, his office announced Sunday. Graham, who was 71, had represented South Carolina in the Senate since 2003 and was currently campaigning for re-election.

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On the evening of Saturday, July 11, US senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness.

Graham's death marks the end of a long career in Washington, where he was known for his strong stance on national security and foreign policy. A retired Air Force Reserve colonel and military lawyer, he was a proponent of the Iraq War and had advocated for military action against Iran. He also opposed the Iran nuclear deal under President Barack Obama.

His relationship with Donald Trump was notably complex. Graham was initially a vocal critic of Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign, calling him a "jackass" and "race-baiting bigot." However, as Trump's influence grew, Graham became one of his most ardent defenders in Congress, playing a key role in defending Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and often golfing with the former president.

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Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period.

Graham's political evolution also included a temporary break with Trump following the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. Graham declared, "Count me out. Enough is enough." However, he later reversed course and endorsed Trump for the 2024 election. Graham was the last surviving member of the influential Senate trio known as the "three amigos," which included the late Senators Joe Lieberman and John McCain.

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I hate it to end this way. Oh my God, I hate it. From my point of view, he’s been a consequential president but today, first thing you’ll see. All I can say is count me out. Enough is enough.