Lindsey Graham's sister is appointed to fill the vacancy in the U.S. Senate seat.

Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of late Senator Lindsey Graham, was sworn into the U.S. Senate to serve the remainder of her brother's term. Governor Henry McMaster appointed Nordone on Tuesday, three days after Graham’s death from an aortic dissection. Graham’s appointment, which marks her as South Carolina's first female senator, followed endorsements from Donald Trump and other Republican leaders. Nordone, who has never held public office, stated she is honored to continue her brother's work on behalf of the state and the nation. Nordone’s temporary service fills the vacancy until January 3. The seat is expected to be decided by voters in a general election later this year. Graham's death had narrowed the Republican party’s Senate majority, placing pressure on the party to secure every available vote. While Nordone is set to serve the remaining months, she has not yet signaled whether she plans to run for a full six-year term.

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