Trump backs Darline Graham for Senate, reshaping South Carolina GOP primary
President Trump urged newly appointed Senator Darline Graham to run in the special primary for Lindsey Graham's seat, prompting a shift in the crowded Republican contest.
President Donald Trump called on Senator Darline Graham, who was sworn in this week to complete her late brother's term, to enter the special Republican primary for Lindsey Graham's U.S. Senate seat. In a social-media post after meeting her in the Oval Office, Trump said, "Lindsey was one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, and his sister shares his deep love of our Country," and added that he asked her to run "for the Good of our Nation" and offered his "Complete and Total Endorsement."
Graham, appointed by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster as an interim replacement following Lindsey Graham's sudden death, had been viewed as a caretaker who would hold the seat until a permanent winner was chosen. The special primary, set for Aug. 11, 2026, was expected to attract several GOP figures, including Representatives Russell Fry, Nancy Mace, Ralph Norman and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, who were considering bids to face Democratic nominee Dr. Annie Andrews.
Trump's endorsement, a potent factor in the state's Republican politics, could clear the field for Graham, though some candidates may still remain in the race. Graham's interim term runs through Jan. 3, 2027, and the filing deadline for the primary is July 28.