Former President Donald Trump has endorsed interim Senator Darline Graham Nordone for a full term in the U.S. Senate. Trump announced his endorsement on his Truth Social platform, stating, “During her visit, I asked Darline, for the Good of our Nation, to run for the U.S. Senate. I hope Darline does this, in that there would be nobody better to honor the legacy of her beloved brother, Lindsey.”
Graham Nordone, who has not previously held elected office, is currently filling the Senate seat and will continue to do so until the winner of the upcoming election is sworn in next January. If she were to run and win, she would make history as the first person to succeed a sibling in the Senate.
Sources close to the situation told the news platform Semafor that Graham Nordone is considering Trump's suggestion. Four individuals familiar with the matter also reportedly informed the Associated Press that she has expressed interest in a potential campaign.
Republican leaders have expressed support for Graham Nordone's initial tenure in the Senate. National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair Tim Scott stated at a press conference that she “has been off to a remarkable start” and could be a “seriously good fit for the state.” Graham Nordone's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from TIME.