Could Lindsey Graham’s South Carolina Senate Seat Turn Democratic?
A sudden change in the race
Lindsey Graham’s death while seeking a fifth Senate term reshaped South Carolina’s contest. Republican Gov. Henry McMaster appointed his sister, Darline Graham, to serve out the remainder of the term, a choice welcomed by people familiar with their close bond.
Darline Graham had little political experience and described herself as a reluctant candidate. Her decision to seek a full six-year term followed a primary held about a month after her brother’s death, drawing prominent Republicans including U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman.
Trump’s role draws criticism
Donald Trump strongly backed Darline Graham, campaigning for her in South Carolina and returning twice near the end of the primary contest. His support has unsettled some independent voters opposed to his second-term actions and some Norman supporters who objected to outside influence.
Graham also faced questions about her readiness for office. During a debate, she struggled to address Taiwan and the South China Sea before saying, “National security is not my thing,” according to Graham. Republican groups sent additional campaign support, while party members said they expected to keep the seat.
Andrews targets family legacy
Democrat Annie Andrews has run largely on her own, focusing on economic issues and criticizing what she calls a Washington political circle that serves itself. She had been campaigning for more than a year and had already won her primary before Lindsey Graham died.
The change forced Andrews to revise a campaign originally focused on defeating the incumbent. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly visited South Carolina, raising her profile. In their only debate last month, Andrews and Darline Graham clashed over the economy, Iran and artificial intelligence.
Republicans retain a strong record
No Democrat has won a South Carolina Senate seat since Fritz Hollings secured his final term in 1998. Republicans have held both seats since, and Jim Clyburn is the only Democrat representing the state in the U.S. House.
An October New York Times/Siena poll indicated a close contest, but polling also showed a tight race in 2020, when Lindsey Graham defeated Jaime Harrison by 10 percentage points. Republican strength includes straight-ticket voting, and the governor’s race appears less competitive than the Senate contest. Libertarian and Constitution Party candidates are also on the ballot.
Key points
- Darline Graham is seeking a full Senate term after being appointed to replace her late brother.
- Annie Andrews is campaigning on economic concerns in a state with a long Republican record.
- Trump’s endorsement has caused unease among some independent voters and Norman supporters.