The District of Columbia's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner released preliminary findings indicating that Senator Lindsey Graham suffered an aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease before his death. Graham, 71, was pronounced dead at George Washington University Hospital at 10:23 p.m. on Saturday, according to a joint statement from the Metropolitan Police Department and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. An autopsy was performed on Sunday.
The medical examiner noted that the findings are not final and that Graham's death certificate will remain pending while toxicological and microscopic testing is completed. The preliminary examination findings indicated an aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
An aortic dissection is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, which can lead to severe internal bleeding or organ damage. Arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease refers to the buildup of plaque inside the arteries, which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of serious heart and vascular complications.
Graham's death, which occurred on Saturday night, has drawn reactions from colleagues in Washington and across the nation. He was a Republican senator first elected in 2002 and was known for his influence on national security, foreign policy, and judiciary matters. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner stated it will update Graham's death certificate once the toxicological and microscopic testing is complete.