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Darline Graham wins SC GOP Senate nomination
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Darline Graham won South Carolina's GOP Senate runoff with 52.4% of the vote. Her victory shows Trump's endorsement still carries weight in Republican primaries.
Background
Darline Graham, sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, was appointed to his seat after his death in July. She entered the race with Trump's backing, despite never holding elected office. Her win over Rep. Ralph Norman in the runoff sets up a November face-off against Democrat Annie Andrews in a deeply red state.
How it unfolded
- Jun 9, 2026Lindsey Graham wins the Republican primary for renomination.
- Jul 11, 2026Lindsey Graham dies from an aortic tear, creating a vacancy.
- Jul 20, 2026Darline Graham is appointed to serve out her brother's term and enters the race.
- Aug 11, 2026Darline Graham finishes first in the 10-way primary with 33%, but falls short of the majority, forcing a runoff.
- Aug 21, 2026Trump holds a rally in Myrtle Beach for Graham, urging voters to support her.
- Aug 25, 2026Darline Graham defeats Ralph Norman in the runoff with 52.4% of the vote.
Who’s saying what
- Support
- Trump's backing was decisive, with MAGA Inc. spending over $827,000 on her behalf.
- Caution
- Critics and opponents attacked her lack of political experience and the appearance of nepotism.