Graham and Norman Head to Runoff in South Carolina Senate Primary

The Associated Press reports that Sen. Darline Graham and Rep. Ralph Norman will advance to a runoff election in the Republican Senate primary in South Carolina. This race follows the passing of Sen. Lindsey Graham.

Neither candidate secured over 50% of the vote, leading to a runoff in two weeks. Rep. Russell Fry, former Gov. Mark Sanford, and other candidates did not advance in the primary, which occurred a month after Lindsey Graham’s sudden death at age 71.

This nomination process tests former President Donald Trump’s influence in the GOP and his endorsement power. Trump supports Graham, Lindsey Graham’s younger sister, who was appointed by Gov. Henry McMaster to complete the Senate term ending this year.

Political Dynamics

Darline Graham stated her campaign aims to support Trump’s agenda. Meanwhile, Norman, who recently ran for governor to succeed Henry McMaster, and Fry, a two-term congressman, both highlighted their support for Trump.

Former Rep. Mark Sanford, who challenged Trump for the GOP presidential nomination in 2020, emphasized fiscal responsibility and national debt as his campaign’s focus.

The GOP field also included businessman Mark Lynch, who previously lost to Lindsey Graham by nearly 30 points in the Republican primary.

Endorsement Challenges

In South Carolina, Trump’s endorsements have not consistently secured victories. He backed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette for governor, but she lost the runoff against Attorney General Alan Wilson after initially leading the primary.

The winner of the Senate runoff will likely be a strong contender against Democratic nominee Annie Andrews, a pediatrician, in the midterm elections.