President Donald Trump shared details on a phone call he had with Senator Lindsey Graham shortly before Graham's death on Saturday at the age of 71. Graham's office reported that he passed away after a brief and sudden illness. During an interview on NBC's 'Meet the Press,' Trump recounted receiving a message about Graham's passing around 1 a.m. on Sunday, expressing disbelief at the news.
Trump stated that Graham had called him after returning from Ukraine and discussed the SAVE America Act, a Republican election bill that Graham co-sponsored. Trump quoted Graham as saying, 'We're all set for the SAVE America Act,' and noted that Graham sounded tired but otherwise well during their conversation. Trump described Graham's death as a significant loss for the SAVE America Act.
In his remarks, Trump characterized Graham as a close ally and friend, stating, 'He was like a member of the family to me.' Following Graham's death, his office released a statement requesting privacy for his family and expressing gratitude for prayers. Graham had been a senator since 2003 and was seeking re-election in November. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster is expected to appoint an interim successor before a special election is held.