South Carolina Senate Debate Features Heated Exchanges Between Graham and Andrews
Incumbent Darline Graham and challenger Annie Andrews traded barbs on policy, qualifications, and past statements during their sole debate.
Senator Darline Graham and Democratic nominee Annie Andrews clashed on Sunday during their only debate for the South Carolina Senate seat, a race that has tightened in the weeks leading up to the general election.
The debate covered issues ranging from Iran and the economy to artificial intelligence, with both candidates questioning the other's fitness for office.
Graham, who was appointed to fill the remainder of her late brother Lindsey Graham's term, secured the Republican nomination with an endorsement from President Donald Trump. Her campaign has been bolstered by millions of dollars from outside groups.
Andrews, the Democratic nominee, sought to link Graham to Trump, stating that she herself would stand up to the Democratic Party when necessary, a trait she suggested Graham, as "the White House’s ambassador to South Carolina," would not exhibit.
The candidates also sparred over Graham's use of her maiden name. Andrews suggested Graham was using her late brother's political legacy for advantage. Graham responded that her legal name has always been Graham, and she uses it to honor her parents. She also addressed a previous statement where she admitted national security was not her area of expertise, a remark Andrews likened to a surgeon admitting a lack of skill in a critical procedure.
Graham countered Andrews' criticisms by highlighting her honesty and accusing her opponent of flip-flopping on issues. When the topic of artificial intelligence arose, Graham mentioned her support for a Trump-created AI task force. Andrews used this as an opportunity to state that while Graham might be suitable for an interim role, she has not demonstrated the qualifications for a full six-year term.
Graham retorted that she was "just as qualified" as Andrews, who has not previously held elected office.
The race features three women, with Libertarian candidate Kasie Whitener also on the ballot. South Carolina is on track to elect its first woman to the U.S. Senate.
Early voting in South Carolina begins on October 19.