US Senator Lindsey Graham, one of President Donald Trump’s closest allies in Congress and a prominent voice on US foreign policy, has died at the age of 71 following a rupture in his aorta. According to a preliminary medical examiner’s report, the rupture was caused by arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The final cause of death will be confirmed after toxicological and microscopic examinations.

 

A Republican Senator from South Carolina and a former US Air Force lawyer, Graham served in Congress for more than three decades. President Donald Trump paid tribute to him, describing him as “like a member of the family”. The President also ordered that the US national flag be flown at half-staff across the country until next Saturday evening.

 

Known for his hawkish foreign policy, Graham was among the most influential voices in Washington on international affairs. He advised President Trump on issues including Iran war and Russia. As Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, he also played a key role during President Trump’s second term.