For many Republican senators, the extent of their acquaintance with Darline Graham, recently appointed to fill her late brother's South Carolina Senate seat, appears to be limited by her last name. Several GOP senators indicated they have not had the opportunity to get to know Graham, who was sworn into the seat on July 14, just days after the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham on July 11.
When asked about Graham's qualifications for the permanent seat, many Republican senators' responses circled back to her deceased brother. "Where better to learn to be a good senator than at the side of your brother for 30 years," said Senator Tim Sheehy of Montana. However, Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana stated bluntly, "I don't know Darline." He emphasized that the true qualifications for the role involve deep connection with constituents, a connection he has not yet established with Graham.
Senator Mike Rounds echoed this sentiment, saying, "I just met her. She's fine," and noted he did not have an answer regarding her qualifications. Senator James Lankford also indicated he had not spent significant time getting to know Graham, stating, "Seriously, I met her, that's all I know." Lankford added that any decision on her full-term election rests with South Carolina voters.
Darline Graham was appointed to the seat by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster. She is now seeking a full term, having received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. A snap primary for Republicans in South Carolina is scheduled for August 11, with over 10 GOP candidates in the race. If no candidate secures over 50 percent of the vote, a runoff election will occur on August 25. The winner will face Democrat Annie Andrews in the general election in November. Early polling suggests a scattered field of candidates, including South Carolina Congressmen Russell Fry and Ralph Norman.
While Trump and Senate Republicans have publicly backed Darline Graham, some senators privately expressed that she needs to demonstrate her appeal to voters. Senator Shelley Moore Capito offered a more positive assessment, highlighting Graham's past experience. "I think she's very capable. She's worked in state government and advocating for people with disabilities. I mean, she's a professional," Capito said.
A spokeswoman for Graham stated that the senator and her staff were in the midst of mourning and declined to comment. Graham has had a swift transition into her new role, including a meeting with the President and planning her brother's funeral services. She did not speak at her brother's nationally televised funeral on Tuesday.