Washington DC -- July 12, 2026: U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina, died Saturday evening, July 11, at the age of 71, following what his office described as a "brief and sudden illness."
No official cause of death has been released. In a statement, Graham's office said his family appreciates the public's prayers and has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Graham served South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since January 2003 after previously serving four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. During more than two decades in the Senate, he became one of the Republican Party's most recognizable figures, serving as chairman of both the Senate Judiciary Committee and, most recently, the Senate Budget Committee. He was widely known for his work on national security, military affairs, judicial nominations and foreign policy.
At the time of his death, Graham was campaigning for a fifth Senate term.
What Happens Next?
The death of a sitting U.S. senator immediately creates a vacancy in the Senate.
Under South Carolina law, Governor Henry McMaster is responsible for appointing an interim U.S. senator to serve until voters elect a permanent replacement. Because Graham had already secured the Republican nomination for the upcoming election, state election law also requires a special process to select a new Republican nominee before the general election. Election officials are expected to announce the timetable in the coming days.
The appointment ensures South Carolina maintains full representation in the U.S. Senate while voters prepare to choose Graham's successor.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.