NPR News: 07-12-2026 10AM EDT

Louise Schiavone· Host0:01

Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Louise Schiavone. Senator Lindsey Graham has died from a brief and sudden illness, his Senate office says. The 71-year-old South Carolina Republican died last night. President Trump is saying this morning the death of Senator Graham was a shock and a loss.

Donald Trump· Soundbite0:18

He was like a member of the family to me. It's very tough, actually. It's amazing.

Louise Schiavone· Host0:22

Mr. President- He was, he was, he was such an advocate.

Donald Trump· Soundbite0:26

He was ... You know, if he, if he wanted to get something... And you know, he had a, a unique ability. He was able to deal with Democrats and Rep- If I had a problem, a real problem, I wouldn't often ask. But if I had a problem with a Democrat, he could work it out.

Louise Schiavone· Host0:40

President Trump spoke on NBC's Meet the Press. US Central Command says the Strait of Hormuz is open to all vessels seeking to lawfully transit the international waterway. This after the US says it struck more than 100 targets in Iran. The US attacks follow an Iranian strike on a vessel in the strait, with that ship catching fire and the crew jumping overboard. The Justice Department is confirming it subpoenaed several New York Times reporters in connection with their reporting that, citing security concerns, the Secret Service had recommended that Trump not fly out of Turkey on the new Air Force One, an aircraft gifted to the president by Qatar. President Trump objected to the story, insisting the change in planes had nothing to do with security concerns. NPR's David Folkenflik says the Times is prepared to defend its journalists.