Darline Graham officially enters the race to succeed her late brother in the South Carolina Senate.
Darline Graham announced Monday that she intends to run for the full Senate term of her late brother, Lindsey Graham. Although she was appointed by Governor Henry McMaster to fill the remaining months of the current term, the move surprised many who expected her to serve only as a placeholder. The administration announced its support for the bid, with President Trump describing her as a "spectacular person" and a "true American Patriot." The race for the seat is becoming increasingly competitive. While Darline Graham has the backing of the president and several high-profile Republicans, she faces a crowded field of candidates. Representatives Russell Fry and Ralph Norman have also entered the race, both touting their "America First" conservative priorities. Despite the lack of prior legislative experience, Senate Majority Leader John Thune called her a "strong candidate" who carries on her brother's legacy. The special primary election is scheduled for August 11, with the winner facing Democrat Annie Andrews in November.