Rep. Nancy Mace May Run for Senate After Graham’s Death

U.S. Representative Nancy Mace has expressed interest in running for the Senate seat previously held by Senator Lindsey Graham, who passed away on Saturday.

Mace, a Republican from South Carolina, acknowledged Graham’s contributions in a social media post on Sunday. She highlighted his dedication to both the state and the nation over several decades.

“South Carolina lost a giant last night. Lindsey Graham devoted over 30 years of his life to this state and country, from serving in the Air Force to being in the U.S. Senate,” Mace wrote. “Although we didn’t always agree, no one could doubt his love for South Carolina and the battles he fought in every arena. Please pray for his family and friends,” she added.

Later that morning, Mace hinted at her intentions to run for the now open Senate seat, especially since she recently lost in the Republican gubernatorial primary and won’t be on the House ballot in November.

On social media, she shared a clip from “The Godfather Part III,” captioned, “Just when I thought I was out…they pulled me back in…”

Mace reiterated her commitment to pursuing the seat. “I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t keep the door open. Life is short. If my constituents want me to, I would seriously consider running for the Senate, but time is limited,” she stated.

Candidates can start submitting their documents on July 21st, with a special Republican primary election scheduled for August 11th.

Graham had recently secured the Republican nomination in June and was set to face Democratic candidate Annie Andrews in the November general election.

According to state law, Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary replacement to fulfill Graham’s term, which concludes in January.

Mace mentioned the tight timeline for the upcoming election. “The submission period opens on July 21st. It’s just a three-week race before the August 11th election. It would be unwise not to consider it. If the people of South Carolina want me to continue serving, I’d definitely think about it,” she said. “But right now, my focus is on honoring his legacy and contributions here in South Carolina.”

Graham, aged 71, had just returned from Ukraine when paramedics were called to his residence for what was described as a “cardiac arrest” on Saturday night. His office released a statement confirming he died after a brief, sudden illness.

“Senator Graham’s family appreciates your prayers during this time and requests privacy as they navigate this challenging period,” his office said.

President Donald Trump revealed that he had spoken to Graham shortly before his death, suggesting that it might have been the senator’s last call. In a speech, Trump said, “I can’t believe it. He was like family to me. This is really hard.” He also announced that the American flag would be flown at half-staff nationwide for a week in honor of the late senator.