The latest
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham died Saturday evening after a brief and sudden illness, his office announced, as President Donald Trump mourned one of his closest political allies and said funeral arrangements would follow.
Details
• Office statement: Graham’s family thanked the public for its prayers and asked for privacy during an “incredibly difficult period.”
• Trump tribute: The president called Graham “one of the greatest people and senators” he had ever known.
• Final message: Trump said Graham was always working, described him as a true patriot and said he would be greatly missed.
Background
Graham represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate from 2003 and became a prominent Republican voice on national security, defense and foreign policy.
What to watch
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced later, along with the formal process for filling South Carolina’s vacant Senate seat.
