Graham death and McConnell absence fuel online conspiracy theories

Conspiracy theories have spread online following the sudden death of US Senator Lindsey Graham and Senator Mitch McConnell's extended absence from public view.

• Senator Lindsey Graham died from an aortic dissection, a preliminary medical examiner report found.
• President Donald Trump said he doubted foul play and called FBI involvement a waste of time.
• Senator Mitch McConnell said he had suffered a fall and been hospitalized with pneumonia, after his office released a photo to prove he was alive.
• Senator John Cornyn said he wanted a toxicology report on Graham released to rule out foul play.

Latest developments

• Darline Graham, the younger sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, has been sworn in to complete his Senate term.
• Senator Chuck Grassley administered the oath, making Darline Graham the first woman to represent South Carolina in the Senate.
• The swearing-in ceremony took place three days after Lindsey Graham's death.