The death of Senator Lindsey Graham has triggered a scramble among South Carolina Republicans to fill his vacant seat, with a primary election set for next month. Graham, who represented South Carolina in the Senate for over two decades, was a significant figure in national politics, particularly as a close ally of former President Donald Trump.
The Republican party's narrow majority in the Senate, now at 52-47, is further strained by the hospitalization of Senator Mitch McConnell. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster is expected to appoint a temporary replacement to serve the remainder of Graham's term, which concludes in January.
The primary to permanently fill the seat is scheduled for August 11, with a runoff on August 25 if no candidate secures a majority. Given South Carolina's strong Republican leanings, the primary winner is likely to hold the seat for the next six years.
Several prominent Republicans in the state have expressed interest in running. U.S. Representative Nancy Mace indicated she is considering a run and plans to begin polling voters. Mark Lynch, who previously challenged Graham, has also stated his interest. Representatives Ralph Norman and Russell Fry are also potential candidates. Norman reportedly sought President Trump's endorsement, while Trump's advisors are reportedly working to prevent Mace from receiving the interim appointment due to past disagreements.
Some within the state's GOP delegation believe Fry would be the strongest contender in the special election due to his close relationship with Trump. However, party leaders are concerned about any member leaving Congress before the session ends, given the slim majority.
U.S. Representative Joe Wilson has stated he intends to remain in the House to maintain the Republican majority there. Speculation has also focused on Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, who has secured Trump's endorsement in her past gubernatorial bid. A representative for Evette indicated she is considering a run and has received encouragement from across the state.
Candidates interested in the primary must file by July 21. The Governor's office has stated that its immediate focus is on honoring Senator Graham's life and service, and that details regarding the process for filling the vacancy will be shared later.
Graham's absence raises questions about upcoming Senate proceedings. The Senate is scheduled to consider the nomination of Todd Blanche for Attorney General, with a confirmation hearing for the Senate Judiciary Committee, on which Graham served, set for Wednesday. Democrats are expected to strongly oppose Blanche's nomination, and Graham's death could complicate the confirmation process. His absence also impacts the future of the SAVE America Act, a bill he co-sponsored that requires voters to provide photo identification, which has passed the House multiple times but stalled in the Senate.
Graham was a close political ally of Donald Trump, who called the senator "a wonderful friend." Following news of his death, Trump paid tribute to Graham, calling him "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known" and "a true American Patriot."