Sen. Darling Graham Nordone Steps into South Carolina Senate Race
Senator Darling Graham Nordone (R-S.C.) is fully committed to the campaign for South Carolina’s Senate seat, just days after receiving “full and complete support” from President Donald Trump.
In a recent interview with Fox News’ Sean Hannity, Graham Nordone discussed his bid to succeed her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), who had been aiming for a full term before his passing. Lindsey Graham died on July 11th at age 71, reportedly from a sudden illness.
“I’ve consulted with my family and prayed a lot. The love from my family and support from my team mean everything. I know I’m a hard worker, and I learned that from Lindsay,” Graham Nordone shared. “He was genuinely devoted to the people of this state. After nearly 30 years of service, I feel I can continue that legacy. I have a sense of peace about this path. Will it be a challenge? Yes, indeed.”
“I’ve made a decision,” Graham Nordone confirmed. “Yes, I am participating.”
On July 17, President Trump posted on Truth Social, mentioning he had encouraged Graham Nordone to “run for the U.S. Senate in the Republican special primary on August 11,” expressing his hope for her candidacy.
“It is an honor to welcome the great South Carolinian, Senator Darling Graham Nordone (sister of the late great Lindsey Graham!), to the Oval Office,” Trump remarked at that moment. “We’ve known each other for ages. She’s a fantastic person and a true patriot. Lindsay was one of the finest senators I have ever known, and his sister carries a profound love for our country and South Carolina. During her visit, I asked Darling to run for the U.S. Senate in the Republican special primary on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, for our nation.”
Graham Nordone is set to be sworn in as senator pro tempore on July 14, completing her brother’s term until the end of the 119th Congress on January 3, 2027.
Other candidates, including Representatives Russell Frey (R-S.C.) and Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), have also declared their intention to run for the Senate seat previously held by Graham.
