Senator Lindsey Graham, a South Carolina Republican and one of former President Donald Trump's closest congressional allies, died on Saturday evening, July 12, 2026, at the age of 71 following a "brief and sudden illness," his office announced via social media. No further details about the cause of death were released, and the family requested privacy during this difficult time.

Graham had previously run against Trump for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination before becoming a trusted adviser, frequently consulting on foreign policy matters including issues related to Iran and Russia. Just one day before his passing, Graham announced an agreement with the Trump administration to advance a package of sanctions against Russia.

In a social media post, Trump described Graham as "one of the greatest people and Senators" he had known, praising him as a "true American Patriot" who was "always working."

Senate Majority Leader John Thune highlighted Graham's military and congressional service, noting it "carried him to far-flung regions of the world." Senator Tim Scott, a fellow South Carolinian, said the state "lost a statesman" and he personally "lost a friend." Even Democratic Senator Mark Warner, who acknowledged disagreements with Graham over the years, praised his commitment to national security.

International leaders also expressed their condolences. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Graham understood that "the security of Israel and America are inseparable" and mourned the loss of "a beloved friend." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who had met with Graham twice during the senator's tenth visit to Ukraine in the past week, called him a "true defender of freedom."

However, not all reactions were favorable. Iranian state television condemned Graham, stating he "has been sent to hell," citing his long history of supporting policies aimed at isolating Iran and curbing its nuclear program.

Sources