Senator Graham's Sudden Death After Return from Ukraine Sparks Conspiracy Theories: What We Know and What Trump Told the FBI?
(CNN) -- President Donald Trump on Tuesday downplayed the idea that Senator Lindsey Graham's death resulted from any suspicious activity, suggesting that the FBI would be "wasting its time" if it were pursuing conspiracy theories about the matter.
According to four law enforcement sources who spoke to CNN, investigators have no indications that Graham's death resulted from unnatural or suspicious causes. One source explained that local police are conducting a routine death investigation, and the FBI has only offered its resources if needed.
Responding to a question about why the FBI is looking into the death or whether he had received any updates, Trump said: 'I know there are all sorts of conspiracy theories being circulated, and I don't think the FBI... I think the bureau is wasting its time if it's doing that.'
The medical examiner initially stated that Graham suffered from an 'aortic dissection' — a tear in the aorta that is life-threatening in most cases. In contrast, online commentators have floated more suspicious theories. For instance, far-right activist Laura Loomer noted that Graham had just returned from Ukraine, where he called for sanctions on Russia, before his death on Saturday. Republican Senator John Cornyn also called for the release of a toxicology report 'to rule out any criminal suspicion.'
Some in law enforcement circles believe FBI Director Kash Patel has complicated the situation. He posted a cryptic comment on X following Graham's death, stating that the bureau 'is assisting local authorities and has provided all necessary resources.' This fueled public confusion when FBI agents were seen entering Graham's home in Washington, D.C., on Monday without a clear reason, especially since sources had previously indicated no signs of criminal suspicion.
Neither Patel nor the FBI has provided any public clarification regarding his statement. However, sources told CNN that Patel's post was intended to indicate the routine review procedures law enforcement agencies follow after the death of a lawmaker.
Most public information — from those who communicated with Graham in the hours before his death — does not suggest any criminal suspicion.
In this context, Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville said that one of his aides was with the staffer who manages Graham's schedule on Saturday evening when the South Carolina Republican called that staffer to complain of chest pain — a symptom that could indicate an aortic dissection — and asked her to call emergency services.
Several people said Graham appeared in good health during their interactions before his death. Trump stated that he spoke by phone with Graham before his death, noting that the senator seemed tired from the trip but otherwise fine.
Senator Katie Britt also told CNN that she spoke with Graham over the weekend — after his conversation with Trump — and that he was 'very excited about garnering White House support for the sanctions bill against Russia,' adding that she sensed nothing unusual.
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal gave a similar account to CNN.
Original source: CNN Arabic
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