Why it Matters

South Carolina Republicans head to the polls Tuesday to choose a replacement for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, and the central question is whether President Trump's endorsement can push his chosen candidate, Darline Graham Nordone, over the finish line in a crowded field.

Lindsey Graham died on July 11, 2026, during his reelection bid. Gov. Henry McMaster, at Trump's urging, appointed Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone, to hold the seat temporarily. She announced her candidacy for a full term the same day Trump posted his endorsement on Truth Social, July 17.

The race is a live test of Trump's endorsement power in a state where it recently came up short.

At least 12 Republicans filed to run, including Reps. Ralph Norman, Russell Fry, and Nancy Mace, former Gov. Mark Sanford, and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette. A candidate must reach 50 percent of the vote to avoid a runoff. Polling heading into Tuesday shows Darline Graham with a lead but short of the threshold needed to avoid a runoff. A Newsweek survey conducted Aug. 5-6 put her at 30.4 percent, with Norman second at 17.5 percent. A Trafalgar Group poll showed her at 27 percent, with Norman close behind. An earlier Emerson College poll had Norman at 22 percent and Graham at 19 percent.

The Media

Politico reported Sunday that "South Carolina Republicans might be watching history repeat itself," drawing a direct parallel to the state's gubernatorial primary earlier this year, where Trump's preferred candidate, Evette, lost. Evette told Politico she had not yet decided who to endorse in the Senate primary.

The AP framed the central tension of the race as "the value of a famous name vs. lack of experience."

What They're Saying

Trump's Truth Social post, published July 17, made his position unambiguous.

"During her visit, I asked Darline, for the Good of our Nation, to run for the U.S. Senate in the Special Republican Primary on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. I hope Darline does this, in that there would be nobody better to honor the legacy of her beloved brother, Lindsey... SHE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN. RUN, DARLINE, RUN!"

He subsequently issued what he called his "complete and total endorsement" of her candidacy.

Voter skepticism has surfaced alongside the enthusiasm. Gigi Bray of Charleston told reporters: "I think it's a great honor for her to hold her brother's spot till November, but it's time for a change. I don't think she has a lot of government experience."

If no candidate clears 50 percent Tuesday, a runoff follows. The GOP nominee will face Democratic nominee Dr. Annie Andrews, a pediatrician, in November.

Access the Legis1 platform for comprehensive political news, data, and insights.

Spot something wrong? Report an issue with this article