The Race Begins
The race to fill South Carolina’s open U.S. Senate seat is officially underway, and Republican voters will have no shortage of conservative candidates to consider.
Darline Graham, who was appointed to temporarily serve the remainder of her late brother Lindsey Graham’s term, announced that she will seek the seat permanently during the upcoming special election.
Speaking with Sean Hannity, Graham said she feels called to serve despite the challenges ahead.
"I feel like I can do it. I feel an inner peace about it," she said. "Will it be difficult? Yes, absolutely."
President Donald Trump has strongly encouraged Graham to run and has publicly endorsed her candidacy. After meeting with her in the Oval Office, Trump praised her as "a true American patriot" and said no one would be better suited to honor her brother’s legacy.
America First Conservatives Join the Contest
Despite President Trump’s endorsement, several well-known conservative Republicans have decided to enter the race.
Congressman Ralph Norman announced his campaign over the weekend, emphasizing his long record of supporting President Trump’s America First agenda. Norman pointed to his backing of conservative priorities, including election integrity measures such as the SAVE America Act, and pledged to continue fighting for South Carolina values in the U.S. Senate.
"For years, Senator Lindsey Graham fought hard to save America and defend South Carolina," Norman said. "Now, President Trump needs another proven America First conservative in the U.S. Senate."
Congressman Russell Fry also entered the race, highlighting his support for President Trump and the Republican agenda. Fry praised Lindsey Graham’s commitment to conservative principles while promising to continue advancing policies that strengthen the nation and serve South Carolina families.
"There is no replacing Lindsey Graham," Fry said. "The best way to honor his legacy is to fight alongside the President just as steadfastly as he did."
A Crowded Republican Primary
The Republican field also includes businessman Mark Lynch and attorney Duke Buckner, while Congresswoman Nancy Mace announced she will not seek the seat, ending speculation about a possible campaign.
The growing list of candidates sets the stage for what is expected to be one of the nation’s most closely watched Republican primaries. While President Trump has made his preference clear by endorsing Darline Graham, several experienced conservative lawmakers believe they are best positioned to carry forward the America First movement in the Senate.
Republican Leaders Weigh In
Senate Majority Leader John Thune has declined to endorse a candidate at this stage but described Darline Graham as a strong contender, praising her accomplishments and acknowledging her desire to continue her brother’s legacy.
Meanwhile, Senator Tom Cotton quickly joined President Trump in endorsing Graham, calling her a principled conservative who would be a strong advocate for South Carolina families.
As the August special primary approaches, Republican voters will decide which candidate they believe is best prepared to defend conservative values, support President Trump’s agenda, and represent South Carolina in the United States Senate.
