U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, died on Saturday after a brief illness, according to his office. He was 71. Graham served in the U.S. House of Representatives before winning a Senate seat in 2002, chaired the Senate Budget Committee, and previously worked as a lawyer and JAG officer in the Air Force. He was known for his active role in foreign policy and defense matters and maintained a close relationship with former President Donald Trump. Senator Rick Scott posted on X, saying he and his wife were saddened by Graham’s death and offering condolences, describing him as a dedicated public servant and friend. Senator Ashley Moody posted on X, stating that Graham used humor, sound arguments and passionate appeals, and that his loss would be felt throughout the Senate. Gov. Henry McMaster announced he would appoint a temporary replacement to hold the seat until a successor is elected in November and sworn in early next year. Graham was seeking re‑election and faced Democratic challenger Annie Andrews, a pediatrician who won the June 9 primary. South Carolina law requires a special primary to select a new Republican nominee before the November general election, with filing scheduled for July 21‑28, the primary set for August 11, and a possible runoff on August 25.