South Carolina GOP Senate candidates spar over national security knowledge in debate

Sen. Darline Graham told voters she is "not that informed on national security" when asked whether Taiwan and the South China Sea constitute U.S. security concerns, while also affirming her support for the military. The comment came during a South Carolina Republican Senate debate ahead of a Aug. 25 runoff between Graham and Rep. Ralph Norman.

Norman, who advanced alongside Graham in the Aug. 11 primary, described her as an "unknown candidate" and emphasized Taiwan's role in chip production, saying the president is helping the island defend itself against China.

Graham later labeled China a national security threat and advocated for bans on Chinese products ranging from AI technology to agricultural imports. She also addressed questions on Iran and Israel.

Former Gov. Nikki Haley posted on social media that Lindsey Graham was well-versed in national security matters, contrasting that with her sister's admission. Democratic Senate candidate Dr. Annie Andrews criticized Graham for seeking a six-year term during wartime while acknowledging limited expertise in the area.

Graham, who was appointed to fill her late brother Lindsey Graham's seat in July, said her priorities focus on affordability for South Carolinians. Both Republican contenders expressed strong support for President Donald Trump, agreed on Iran as a threat, recognized Israel as an ally, and backed the SAVE America Act and a ban on birthright citizenship.

The debate ended with Graham rejecting Norman's claim that she canceled a second debate, stating she prefers meeting voters in the state. She highlighted her recent Senate actions, including co-sponsoring the SAVE America Act, helping pass a Russia sanctions bill, and voting to confirm Attorney General Todd Blanche.