Ron Johnson

South Carolina Republican U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham died July 11 after a "brief and sudden illness," according to his office. He was 71.

His death stunned Congress, including his Senate colleagues from Wisconsin. Fellow Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson said he was "shocked and deeply saddened" by Graham's sudden passing. Johnson called Graham a friend.

"He was a true American patriot who blended a wonderful sense of humor with a serious and dedicated sense of duty to our country. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends," Johnson said.

Graham supported Johnson's U.S. Senate reelection bid in 2016, traveling to Wisconsin to talk to supporters at Merrill Iron & Steel in Schofield. While Graham had not made any recent, high-profile campaign stops in Wisconsin, he was at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin said Graham "devoted decades to public service, including his service in the Air Force and in Congress."

"I’m keeping his family, his staff, and the people of South Carolina in my thoughts and sending my deepest condolences," Baldwin said.

Under South Carolina law, Gov. Henry McMaster is tasked with appointing an interim replacement before a special election will be held in August to choose the next senator.

Wisconsin is among the minority of states that do not allow the governor to select a temporary successor for a U.S. Senate vacancy; the seat can only be filled through a special election.

Other Wisconsin politicians react to Lindsey Graham's death

Republican U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden said he and his wife were "saddened to hear of the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham."

"Please join us in praying for his family, his dedicated staff, and the many friends and colleagues whose lives he touched," Van Orden said.

Former Gov. Scott Walker called Graham's death a "shock."

"I first got to really know Lindsey Graham during the 2016 campaign. He had a quick wit filled with common sense. Prayers for his family and friends," Walker said.

Hope Karnopp can be reached at [email protected].