President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that the late Senator Lindsey Graham's heart condition was 'almost undetectable.' During a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, Trump responded to a question regarding the FBI's presence at Graham's home, noting that FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the bureau is assisting local authorities in the investigation into Graham's death. Trump mentioned that he reviewed medical reports and indicated that Graham's condition was difficult to detect. He added that Graham had previously complained of back pain, which he suggested could be related to the heart condition.
Graham passed away in Washington, D.C., shortly after returning from a visit to Kyiv, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. A preliminary report from the District of Columbia's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner identified the cause of death as an aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, although the official cause remains pending further testing. Trump remarked that he did not perceive any wrongdoing surrounding Graham's death and criticized conspiracy theories related to the investigation.
Trump also noted that Graham's father had a similar condition, although reports indicate that his father died from a massive heart attack, which differs from an aortic dissection. Medical experts have explained that an aortic dissection can develop rapidly and may be challenging to recognize. Dr. Mehmet Oz, a cardiothoracic surgeon, provided insights on the condition, explaining the mechanics of an aortic tear and its potential consequences.
Following Graham's death, his sister, Darline Graham, was appointed by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to complete her brother's Senate term, which will end on January 3, 2027. She is set to be sworn in on Tuesday.