US Senator Lindsey Graham, who combined a long political career with outspoken Christian faith and advocacy for persecuted believers around the world, has died aged 71 following what his office described as a "brief and sudden illness".
The South Carolina Republican served in the US Senate for more than two decades, becoming one of the country's most influential voices on foreign policy and national security. He was also a prominent ally of President Donald Trump during the president's second term.
Alongside his political career, Graham spoke openly about his Christian faith and regularly highlighted the plight of persecuted Christians and other religious minorities during congressional debates and overseas visits.
Graham also maintained close relationships with evangelical leaders and faith-based organisations, often describing religious liberty as a fundamental human right.
He was also a well-known pro-life figure on the issue of abortion.
"Lindsey Graham was an unwavering pro-life champion and a friend," said SBA Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser in a statement on his death. "There will be no replacements for Lindsey Graham."
"A man of vision and tenacity, he gave wise counsel and advocacy in countless difficult moments fighting for the rights of the unborn child. He expended himself to the work he was called to do, stepping up when no one else would.
"On the fundamental value of the not-yet-born child to live, he said to all who would listen: 'It's not about geography!' Indeed, his ability to persuade transcended geographic and political boundaries."
Born in Central, South Carolina, on 9 July 1955, Graham served as a lawyer in the US Air Force before entering politics. He was elected to the US House of Representatives in 1994 before winning election to the Senate in 2002, where he remained until his death.
Tributes have poured in from political and religious leaders.
Tony Perkins, president faith-based lobby group Family Research Council, called Graham a "true leader" and a "voice for the defenseless".
"He used his influence to advance the cause of life. When others grew quiet, Lindsey stepped forward and gave his colleagues a way to speak — clearly, courageously, and compassionately — about the dignity of every human life," he said.
"He was also a consistent advocate for persecuted Christians around the world, those who suffer simply because they refuse to deny their faith."
President Donald Trump described Graham as "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known", adding that he "was always working, and was a true American Patriot".
Evangelical leader Franklin Graham also paid tribute, remembering the senator as "a strong fighter" and asking supporters to pray for his family.
"He stood for freedom," Graham told Fox News, "and I just thank God that we had somebody like him".
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster said the state had lost "a giant of public service", while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised Graham's longstanding support for his country following Russia's invasion.
Graham never married and is survived by his sister, Darline
