Sen. Darline Graham, the sister of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, released a campaign video Thursday, just days after funeral services for her brother, as she vies for a full six-year term in the U.S. Senate representing South Carolina. The special GOP primary election is scheduled for August 11, with early voting beginning on August 5.
In the video, Graham, who was appointed to fill her brother's vacant seat earlier this month, described herself as a "conservative Republican" and stated her readiness to serve. "I'm honored to serve South Carolina and grateful for President Trump's endorsement. And I'll work hard every day to earn it," she said.
She outlined her conservative stances, stating, "Every life is precious. Men don't belong in women's sports. And only American citizens should vote in our elections." The video concludes with a message indicating it was paid for by "DARLINE FOR SENATE."
Graham was sworn into the Senate on July 14, filling the remainder of her brother's term after his death on July 11. She confirmed her intention to run for a full term during an interview on July 20, stating, "It’s official. I'm running to represent South Carolina in the United States Senate." She added that President Trump had encouraged her to run.
President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Graham in a Truth Social post on July 17, urging her to run in the special Republican U.S. Senate primary. He described her as a "WINNER all of her life" and stated, "SHE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN."
Graham faces a competitive Republican primary field that includes U.S. Reps. Ralph Norman and Russell Fry, former Gov. Mark Sanford, and businessman Mark Lynch, who previously challenged Lindsey Graham in the June primary. The special election is crucial as it determines who will serve the remainder of the late senator's term.