Senator Lindsey Graham dies at 71: A political survivor of the Trump era
Lindsey Graham, who evolved from a Trump critic to a close ally, has died at 71, leaving a legacy of political adaptability in the Republican Party.
US Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has died at the age of 71. His 23-year Senate career was marked by his ability to adapt to the shifting political landscape, particularly during the rise of Donald Trump.
Initially a close ally of Senator John McCain, Graham ran for president in 2015 on a platform of reducing partisan tensions. However, when Trump criticized McCain's war record, Graham called him a "jackass" and later a "race-baiting, xenophobic, religious bigot." After Trump secured the Republican nomination, Graham tweeted that the party would be "destroyed."
Following Trump's 2016 victory, Graham changed course and became a staunch ally, frequently golfing with the president and defending his policies. He played a key role in confirming Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. After Trump lost the 2020 election and the January 6 Capitol attack, Graham said "count me out, enough is enough," but later voted to acquit Trump in his impeachment trial and supported him again in 2024.
Graham maintained friendships across the aisle, as noted by Trump. His death complicates Republican legislative plans, and Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary replacement. A new primary will be held to choose a candidate for November's general election.
