Aortic Dissection: A Rare and Dangerous Condition

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News Senior Medical Analyst, clarified that Sen. Lindsey Graham’s death was caused by a ruptured aorta due to cardiovascular disease. Siegel explained the rare condition of aortic dissection. This occurs when a tear forms in the inner wall of the aorta, the body’s main artery. It is a life-threatening emergency.

Common risk factors include high blood pressure and arterial plaque buildup. Siegel emphasized the importance of regular health check-ups and preventive measures for cardiovascular health.

Sen. Graham’s Last Moments

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., passed away suddenly following an overseas trip. His final moments were detailed by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., who revealed that Graham sought medical assistance through a staff member.

“My former scheduler was Lindsey’s scheduler,” Tuberville explained. “He called saying, ‘I’m having chest pains.’ My staff asked if he called 911, and Graham responded, ‘No, that’s why I called you.'”

911 was called, and responders broke into his residence to assist. Graham’s office later confirmed that his death resulted from “aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease.”

Graham’s Dedication to Service

Graham’s commitment to his work was evident. Tuberville remarked that Graham often worked tirelessly with little rest. Even on his busiest days, he focused on vital international issues, sharing in one of his last conversations his intent to address Russia, Iran, and Israeli-Saudi relations before seeking medical attention.

Tributes and Succession

Graham’s death shook the Senate. Members paid emotional tributes, marking the first day back in Washington, D.C., after the Fourth of July recess. His Senate desk, formerly belonging to his close friend, the late Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., was adorned with a black veil and white roses.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., expressed the void left by Graham’s absence, saying, “The halls of the Senate already feel empty without him.” Thune found comfort in the belief that they will reunite one day.

Graham’s sister, Darline Graham Nordone, has been appointed to temporarily fill his Senate seat. She was sworn in on Tuesday, selected by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster. Nordone pledged to honor her brother, saying, “I think this is what Lindsey would have wanted. I’m going to do this, I got it.”

Alex Miller reports for Fox News Digital on the U.S. Senate.