FBI personnel descended on the late Sen. Lindsey Graham’s Washington, D.C., home Monday, less than 48 hours after the South Carolina Republican died from an aortic dissection at age 71.
At least six men and two women in FBI gear were seen at Graham’s row house in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, according to video recorded by Nexstar reporter Vinay Simlot. An FBI agent entered the home as a man wearing a U.S. Marshals Service jacket exited. Two additional agents in blue and yellow FBI windbreakers later went inside, while a third stood watch outside near a large black container. At one point, an agent retrieved a manila folder from that container.
Graham died Saturday evening following what his office described as “a brief and sudden illness.” The D.C. chief medical examiner, Dr. Francisco Diaz, issued a preliminary finding Sunday that Graham died of aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Toxicological and microscopic testing is still ongoing, with Diaz’s office noting it “will take time” to complete a comprehensive analysis.
FBI Director Kash Patel said Sunday the bureau was “assisting local authorities and has made every necessary resource available” following Graham’s death. The agency declined further comment on Patel’s statement.
Metropolitan Police Department Chief Jeffery Carroll said Sunday his department is leading the investigation into Graham’s death. A law enforcement source told NewsNation that the MPD remains the lead agency, with the FBI providing support resources.
Graham, 71, had served in the U.S. Senate since 2003 and was one of the most recognizable figures in the Republican Party. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Graham’s sister, Darline Graham Nordone, Monday afternoon to fill the remainder of his term through January 3. A special primary to determine the GOP nominee for a full six-year term is set for Aug. 11.
