Officials have released the preliminary cause of death for U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham after he died unexpectedly over the weekend at the age of 71.
According to a statement from the South Carolina Republican’s office, the initial finding from the Washington, D.C., Medical Examiner is “Aortic Dissection due to Arteriosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease.”
The office said the death certificate has not yet been finalized. Officials are still waiting for toxicological and microscopic testing to be completed before the final findings and official manner of death are added to the record, according to VT.
The medical update comes after Graham’s sudden death sparked widespread attention in Washington and online, with many questioning the circumstances surrounding the longtime senator’s passing.
Before the preliminary medical findings were released, FBI agents were seen at Graham’s Washington, D.C., home. FBI Director Kash Patel later confirmed on social media that the bureau was assisting local authorities and had made every necessary resource available for the investigation.
Lindsey Graham’s cause of death
The federal response quickly fueled speculation, although law enforcement sources later said investigators found no immediate signs of foul play at the residence.
According to Graham’s office, first responders were called to his home at around 8:30 p.m. Saturday after receiving a 911 report of a cardiac arrest. He was transported to George Washington Hospital, where he later died early Sunday following what his office initially described as a brief and sudden illness.
As one of Congress’ strongest supporters of U.S. military assistance abroad, Graham had become a frequent target of criticism from foreign governments because of his outspoken views on conflicts involving countries such as Russia and Iran.
Following news of his death, an Iranian state television host openly celebrated the announcement during a Sunday broadcast.
The sudden nature of Graham’s death also prompted questions from some political commentators. Meanwhile, tributes poured in from political leaders across party lines.
Donald Trump on Lindsey Graham’s death
President Donald Trump honored Graham in a post on Truth Social, describing him as a true American patriot who was always working.
The White House later ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in recognition of Graham’s years of public service.
Vice President JD Vance also remembered his former Senate colleague, saying Graham “fought like hell for the things he believed in, and he was just as willing to go to bat for you when it counted,” according to VT.
South Carolina Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn said their partnership was “sometimes partisan and passionate, but always pleasant and productive on behalf of the people of South Carolina.”
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