Tim Scott Champions Conservative Continuity: Darline Graham Considered for Lindsey Graham's Senate Seat
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South Carolina Republican Sen. Tim Scott praised Darline Graham, appointed to her late brother's Senate seat, as a strong potential candidate for a full term, as the GOP field remains robust and committed to conservative values.
South Carolina Republican Sen. Tim Scott expressed strong support for Darline Graham, who was appointed to serve the remainder of her brother Lindsey Graham’s Senate term, suggesting she could be an excellent candidate for the seat in the upcoming special election. 'Darline has so far been off to a remarkable start,' Scott told CBS News, adding, 'Why not her?'—a testament to her dedication and the Graham family's legacy of service.
Scott made these remarks at a press conference honoring the late senator, who passed away last weekend after serving the state with distinction in the Senate since 2003. He praised Graham’s 'grace and grit' after Governor Henry McMaster wisely named her as interim replacement on Monday, ensuring stability and continuity for South Carolina conservatives.
Graham has not yet indicated whether she intends to seek a full six-year term, but in a recent news conference she said she will 'work hard over the next several months to support the president and carry forward the efforts of my brother'—a clear signal that she stands ready to defend the values and policies that have benefited South Carolina families.
The special GOP primary, scheduled for next month, will allow candidates to file between July 21 and July 28. Several current and former members of the state’s congressional delegation—each with a proven record of conservative leadership—have expressed interest. Former Rep. Trey Gowdy, a champion for accountability, former Rep. Russell Fry, and other respected Republicans are being discussed as possible contenders. President Donald Trump, the leader of the America First movement, has not publicly endorsed any candidate, though sources say he is interested in backing Fry.
Other potential candidates include state Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, who has received numerous calls from patriotic supporters urging her to run, and Representatives Ralph Norman and Nancy Mace, both of whom have floated the idea. Two House members, Joe Wilson and William Timmons, have ruled out a Senate bid, citing the importance of protecting the Republican majority in the House—a strategic move to safeguard conservative priorities.
The seat was previously held by Lindsey Graham, who won re-election in 2020 by a ten-point margin, reflecting the strong support for Republican principles in South Carolina.