Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina died Saturday evening after a brief and sudden illness, his office said in an X post early on Sunday. He was 71.
A Senator since 2003, Graham had been a vocal advocate for a muscular, hawkish foreign policy.
He also went from being an outspoken critic of Donald Trump to one of his most prominent supporters, particularly pushing the president to launch war against Iran.
“Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period,” his office said.
Trump took to Truth Social to pay tribute. “Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead!” he said.
“He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!!”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also paid tribute to Graham, saying in a statement, “Israel has lost one of its greatest friends, America has lost a great patriot.”
