Lindsey Graham's Sister Appointed to Fill Late Brother's Senate Seat

Darline Graham has been appointed to fill the U.S. Senate seat formerly held by her late brother, Lindsey Graham, becoming South Carolina's interim senator. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster announced the appointment, calling it an honor to ask her to serve.

Darline Graham's appointment is seen as a way to maintain the Republican party's slim majority in the Senate, as appointing a member of the House of Representatives would have immediately created a vacancy there. She will serve until January, with a special election to determine who will serve the remainder of the term set for mid-August, followed by a general election in November.

Several Republican House members from South Carolina, including Reps. Russell Fry, Nancy Mace, and Ralph Norman, have expressed interest in running for the full term. President Donald Trump has indicated support for Fry.

Lindsey Graham, who represented South Carolina, died at age 71. His passing leaves a significant void in the Senate, where he was known for his tenacity and focus on problem-solving. Senate Majority Leader John Thune noted the Senate's halls feel empty without him, and Senate Chaplain Barry Black offered a prayer for his family and colleagues.

Darline Graham, described as a political neophyte, was adopted by Lindsey Graham after their parents died when she was a teenager. She stated that Lindsey Graham had always been there for her, and now she will be there for him by serving out his term. She drew a parallel to her brother teaching her to ride a bike, pushing her and encouraging her to "Keep pedaling! Keep pedaling!"

Lindsey Graham was first elected to Congress in 1994 as part of the "Republican Revolution." He gained national prominence after serving as a House manager in the impeachment of President Clinton in 1999. He transitioned to the Senate in 2003, becoming one of its most prominent voices.

The upcoming November election will mark the first time since the mid-1950s that neither Lindsey Graham nor the late Sen. Strom Thurmond will be on the ballot in South Carolina.