US senator and Trump ally Lindsey Graham dies age 71

Prominent U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a staunch ally of President Donald Trump, died Saturday at age 71 after a "brief and sudden illness," his office announced. Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1994 and to the Senate in 2002. He served as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee and was known for his strong support of Israel and hawkish stance on Iran.

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On the evening of Saturday, July 11, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness.

President Trump paid tribute to Graham on Truth Social, calling him "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known" and a "true American Patriot." South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster described Graham as "irreplaceable" and "the fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America." Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed shock and heartbreak, remembering Graham as a "beacon of moral clarity" and a "true leader of the U.S.-Israel partnership" who stood by Israel in difficult times.

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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!!!

Graham was re-elected to the Senate in 2008, 2014, and 2020. His passing marks the end of a significant political career marked by strong alliances and firm policy positions.

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The fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America - and a loyal and steadfast friend.