Trump backs Lindsey Graham's sister, sparking revolt among South Carolina Republicans

After Lindsey Graham’s unexpected death, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster named his sister Darline Graham, a disability-services worker with no elected background, to complete the remainder of the term. Within weeks she declared her intention to run for a full Senate seat and secured Donald Trump’s endorsement for the Republican primary. GOP activists and several candidates view the endorsement as favoritism, noting her absence of a voting record and limited political exposure.

The contest now features a dozen contenders, including U.S. Representatives Ralph Norman and Russell Fry, as well as former Governor Mark Sanford, suggesting a likely runoff in late August. Senate leaders Tim Scott and John Thune have refrained from endorsing any candidate, while a Republican official warned that Graham faces a “dogfight.” Despite courting MAGA voters with support for the SAVE Act and anti-abortion positions, her credibility remains under scrutiny.