Trump says FBI investigation into Senator Graham's death is unnecessary

President Donald Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that he believes the FBI’s inquiry into the sudden death of Sen. Lindsey Graham is unnecessary, saying the agency is "wasting their time." He acknowledged circulating conspiracy theories but said he sees no evidence of wrongdoing.

The 71-year-old senator died Saturday night. Washington’s chief medical examiner reported a preliminary cause of death as an aortic dissection linked to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with toxicology results still pending.

Trump said he had reviewed the medical reports and received a briefing from White House doctors. He noted that Graham’s father had died of similar heart complications and mentioned that back problems can be a sign of the condition.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the bureau is assisting local authorities as a precautionary measure. Law-enforcement sources said no new evidence of foul play has emerged.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham’s sister, Darline Graham, to serve the remainder of the term, with her oath scheduled for Tuesday.