Lindsey Graham has died from a “brief and sudden illness” at the age of 71, according to a statement released by his office. According to NBC News, “emergency personnel responded to a call for “cardiac arrest” at Graham’s Capitol Hill home on Saturday night”.
“Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period,” the statement continued.
Statement from the Office of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina). pic.twitter.com/CQ5yVvqTH1
— Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) July 12, 2026
Photographs reviewed by NBC News show that paramedics carried a person on a stretcher from Graham’s home to an awaiting ambulance. Police cars and fire trucks were also on site.
Graham had represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since January 2003 and was campaigning for a fifth six-year term in November. At the time of his death, he chaired the Senate Budget Committee.
One of the Senate’s most recognizable and outspoken members, Graham played a prominent role in Republican politics and was especially influential on matters involving national defense, foreign policy and international affairs.
Responses poured in on Twitter:
I disagreed with Senator Lindsey Graham on a number of issues, but this is how I am going to choose to remember him.
Fighting for the confirmation of Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Lindsey 2.0 was something else. RIP. pic.twitter.com/HI4D9Eazzw
— Thomas Hern (@ThomasMHern) July 12, 2026
🚨 Senator Lindsey Graham has passed away at the age of 71 following a brief and sudden illness.
Regardless of where you stood politically, Senator Lindsey Graham leaves behind a consequential legacy in the U.S. Senate. His career was defined by his influence on the federal… pic.twitter.com/0uLV2Fj2uG
— Kylie Jane Kremer (@KylieJaneKremer) July 12, 2026
🇺🇸 Lindsey Graham died after a HEART ATTACK
Emergency responders were called to his Capitol Hill home after he suffered a cardiac arrest, according to police scanner audio
Paramedics were seen carrying a person on a stretcher from his home to an awaiting ambulance.
Source:… https://t.co/zMe1TbTUGe pic.twitter.com/Z0Aag363Lq
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) July 12, 2026
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for more…
