Trump suggests Governor McMaster appoint Graham's sister as interim senator
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President Donald Trump urged South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to name the late Senator Lindsey Graham's sister as an interim replacement, as the state prepares for a special primary to fill the seat.
President Donald Trump called on South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster on Monday to appoint Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, as an interim U.S. senator for the remainder of the term. Trump posted on his social-media platform that the appointment would honor Graham, who died unexpectedly on Saturday at age 71.
Under state law, McMaster can select a temporary replacement until a special primary election, scheduled for Aug. 11, determines a permanent successor. The governor is expected to hold a press conference to commemorate Graham and announce the interim appointee.
Graham, a two-decade Senate veteran and a frequent ally of Trump, was seeking re-election at the time of his death. The upcoming race, rated "Solid R" by the Cook Political Report, will pit the Republican primary winner against Democrat Annie Andrews in November. Potential Republican candidates include Representatives Nancy Mace, Ralph Norman, William Timmons, Russell Fry and Joe Wilson, as well as Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and possibly McMaster himself.
In a recent interview, Trump praised McMaster, saying the governor "will do the right thing" and will be "fantastic" in handling the appointment.