Lindsey Graham, a senator for South Carolina, has died at the age of 71. As reported by the Associated Press, his office confirmed that he passed away on July 11.
His office released a statement following his passing. According to Politico, it reads, "On the evening of Saturday, July 11, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness."
"Senator Graham's family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period."
The outlet reported that emergency medical services were called to his home on Capitol Hill. Audio from the call said that someone was suffering from "chest pains". They arrived at around 8:27 pm local time. However, no official cause of death has been released at this time.
Senator Graham was first elected to the House in 1994. He then had a successful campaign for the Senate in 2002, where he has held office ever since.
He had visited Kyiv in Ukraine on Friday, where he announced to reporters that a bipartisan effort to sanction Russian oil buyers had been moving forward.
The senator was also scheduled to appear on Meet The Press on Sunday, July 12.
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Tributes Have Poured in for the Senator
Tributes have poured in for Senator Graham.
President Trump posted on social media lamenting his passing. "Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead!" he wrote. "He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!!"
Representative Mike Turner of Ohio also released a statement on social media. "Until his final days, he was pressing the case for stronger sanctions against Russia."
"There is no better way to honor his final mission than for the Senate and the White House to swiftly send his bipartisan Russia sanctions legislation to the President's desk."
People on social media have also mourned the loss of the senator. One commenter wrote, "Whatever your politics, Lindsey Graham had a significant impact on U.S. foreign policy and the Senate. Condolences to his family and colleagues," while another wrote, "May he rest in peace, and may his loved ones find comfort during this difficult time."
Rest in peace, Senator Graham.
