Washington: US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has died after a “brief and sudden” illness, according to his office. He was 71.

Graham, a senator from South Carolina, died on Saturday, July 11, (local time), his office said in a post on X.

“On the evening of Saturday, July 11, US Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness,” said the statement.

“Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period,” it said.