Trump ally, veteran US senator Lindsey Graham dies aged 71

United States Senator Lindsey Graham has died at the age of 71 following a brief and sudden illness, his office announced early Sunday morning.

The veteran South Carolina Republican passed away on Saturday evening, leaving a massive void in the Senate and the conservative movement.

"On the evening of Saturday, July 11, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness," his office said in a formal statement. "Senator Graham's family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period."

According to NBC News, emergency responders were reportedly called to a Capitol Hill residence owned by Graham on Saturday night.

Reports also indicate medical personnel performed emergency lifesaving measures after responding to a call regarding an individual experiencing chest pains, before transporting him to George Washington University Hospital.

The long-serving lawmaker was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1994 before moving to the Senate in 2002.

He was actively running for a fifth Senate term at the time of his passing and had just returned from a diplomatic visit to Ukraine.

Following his passing, President Donald Trump paid tribute to his congressional ally in a social media post early Sunday, expressing grief and praising the senator's dedication to his country.

"Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead," Trump wrote. "He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed."

While Graham initially opposed Trump during the 2016 Republican presidential primary, he eventually pivoted to become one of the president's most fierce and influential defenders on Capitol Hill.

The two frequently played golf together and collaborated closely on major foreign policy decisions.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster expressed profound sadness over the loss, describing Graham as an irreplaceable figure in both state and national politics.

"Lindsey Graham is irreplaceable," McMaster said. He added that the late senator was a loyal friend and a fierce fighter for South Carolina. Under state law, McMaster will be responsible for appointing an interim replacement to fill the vacant Senate seat.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune also honoured his colleague, highlighting Graham's background as a retired Air Force Reserve colonel and a dedicated public servant.

"He was a strong advocate for the United States and a strong ally to freedom-loving countries across the globe," Thune said. "He believed in the might of America to achieve good in the world and dedicated his life to advancing that cause."