Former Congressman Mark Sanford backs Ralph Norman in South Carolina Senate runoff
Mark Sanford announced his endorsement of Rep. Ralph Norman for the South Carolina Republican Senate primary runoff scheduled for Tuesday.
Former Rep. Mark Sanford declared his endorsement of Rep. Ralph Norman in the upcoming South Carolina Republican Senate primary runoff, which will be held Tuesday evening. Sanford, a fourth-place finisher in the first round, said on X that while he disagrees with Norman on certain issues, the former’s legislative experience and conservative voting record make him the better choice to curb government spending and address the national debt.
The runoff pits Norman against Sen. Darline Graham, who was appointed to replace her late brother Lindsey Graham and has received an endorsement from President Donald Trump, who is also organizing a rally in Myrtle Beach to support her. Former candidate Mark Lynch has also endorsed Norman, while Rep. Russell Fry backs Graham. The outcome is viewed as decisive in a reliably Republican state, with the primary winner likely to dominate the November race.
Why it matters
The endorsement could influence a pivotal Senate race in a reliably Republican state, shaping the GOP's Senate composition.
How this story developed
- Aug 8 GOP Senate Primary in South Carolina Narrows as Candidates Trade Poll Leads
- Aug 14 Rep. Russell Fry announced his endorsement of Darline Graham.
- Aug 17 Nikki Haley announced support for Norman, breaking with President Trump's backing of Graham Nordone.
- Aug 17 Rep. Warren Davidson posted on X that Sen. Darline Graham is aligned with the political establishment, as she prepares for a runoff against Rep. Ralph Norman.
- Aug 19 The candidates faced off in a televised debate at the Newberry Opera House.
- Aug 19 Graham’s debate comments have become a focal point in the runoff campaign.
- Aug 19 Ralph Norman secured the Republican Senate nomination, ending Darline Graham’s campaign.
- Aug 20 Graham told “Hannity” that many voters cannot locate Taiwan on a map.
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