- Darline Graham has been chosen as the Republican nominee for the US Senate seat formerly held by her late brother, Lindsey Graham, after defeating Ralph Norman with 52.4% of the vote in the runoff election.
- At her victory party, Graham declared, 'South Carolina is truly Trump country', highlighting the influence of Donald Trump in her campaign.
- Trump actively supported Graham throughout her campaign, including holding a rally in Myrtle Beach and having his super PAC, MAGA Inc., spend over $800,000 on her behalf.
- Following the death of Lindsey Graham in July, Trump lobbied South Carolina's governor to appoint Darline Graham to fill the remaining months of her brother's term.
- Darline Graham was sworn in and subsequently announced her candidacy for a full term after Trump encouraged her to run.
- In the August 11 primary, Graham emerged as the top vote-getter with just shy of 33% of the vote, which allowed her to advance to the runoff against Ralph Norman.
Darline Graham's victory in the South Carolina Senate runoff, backed by Donald Trump, marks a significant moment for the former president amid a challenging political landscape.123456
Graham secured 52.4% of the vote against Ralph Norman's 47.6%, showcasing Trump's enduring influence in the state.7
“Our victory would not have been possible without you, and we are truly grateful,” Graham said, acknowledging Trump's support.
Trump's MAGA Inc. Super PAC invested over $800,000 in her campaign, demonstrating his commitment to her candidacy.
Despite concerns over her lack of legislative experience, Graham advanced from a competitive 10-candidate field, ultimately winning in Horry County, a key area that has shifted politically.
Norman recognized Trump's impact, stating, “the president got involved. He has that right.” This win is crucial for Trump, who faced several setbacks in recent primaries, as he aims to maintain his influence ahead of the midterm elections.
Graham's win not only secures her position but also reinforces Trump's grip on South Carolina's Republican base, as she declared, “South Carolina is truly Trump country.”
“Graham's narrow win—52.4% to 47.6%—came after MAGA Inc. spent over $800,000 on her behalf, and Trump's rally in Myrtle Beach proved decisive as Horry County's coastal voters outweighed Norman's northern base. Norman, who had endorsed Nikki Haley in 2023, acknowledged Trump's involvement, saying 'the president got involved. He has that right.'”
The Guardian
