FBI Director Kash Patel announced on Sunday that the agency is assisting local authorities in Washington, D.C., following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) on Saturday night due to a brief and sudden illness. Patel stated, "The FBI is assisting local authorities and has made every necessary resource available." There is no indication of foul play in Graham's death.
Graham, who was 71 years old, passed away after returning from a trip to Ukraine. His office confirmed that he had shown no signs of ill health prior to his death. Former President Donald Trump ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in Graham's honor, describing him as "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known" and a "true American patriot."
Graham served in Congress for over three decades, starting as a U.S. representative from 1995 to 2003 before being elected to the Senate. Emergency medical services responded to a call of cardiac arrest at Graham's residence late Saturday evening. His family has a history of heart attacks.
According to South Carolina state law, Governor Henry McMaster has the authority to appoint Graham's replacement, and a special election must be held by August 11 to determine the candidate who will run against Dr. Annie Andrews for the Senate seat.