President Donald Trump made a second visit in eight days to South Carolina to rally support for Republican Senate candidate Darline Graham, who is facing a surprisingly competitive race in the traditionally deep-red state. The rally, held in Rock Hill, aimed to energize voters for Graham, the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who is in a tight contest against Democratic pediatrician Dr. Annie Andrews.
The urgency of Trump's intervention highlights growing concerns within the GOP about Graham's candidacy. Polls indicate a close race, with a recent New York Times/Siena survey showing Graham tied with Andrews at 48 percent. Andrews has particularly strong support among independents and younger voters, and has outraised Graham significantly, bringing in $23.8 million to Graham's $1.2 million by mid-October.
Despite Trump's endorsement, enthusiasm for Graham among some local Republicans appears tepid. One MAGA supporter waiting in line for the rally expressed uncertainty about Graham's qualifications, a sentiment echoed by others. Many attendees, including some from neighboring North Carolina, stated they were primarily there to see Trump, not necessarily Graham.
Graham herself has faced criticism for her campaign statements, including admitting a lack of knowledge on national security matters during a debate. She also defeated incumbent Republican Congressman Ralph Norman in the primary, a move that rankled some within the party. Norman's son has even expressed support for Andrews.
Trump has heavily attacked Andrews, referring to her as "Tranny Annie" and accusing her of supporting "child sexual mutilation" and wanting to take away guns. Andrews has countered these attacks with a television advertisement clarifying her positions, stating she does not support biological men in women's sports or gender surgery for minors, nor does she support taking away guns.
The race has highlighted potential challenges for the GOP in South Carolina. Some Republicans express frustration with what they perceive as an attempt to force a candidate onto the voters. Nancy Mace, a Republican congresswoman, described the situation as a "train wreck." Voters like Brittany Dean, a Republican who voted for Trump in 2024, expressed dismay at Trump's rhetoric, stating his insults motivated her to vote for the Democratic candidate. Another voter, Anthony Mestas, said he would have supported Ralph Norman and did not vote Republican because the party "shoved an unqualified candidate on the people."
Despite the challenges, Graham has presented herself as a staunch conservative, criticizing Andrews as "plain bats**t crazy" and a "gun grabber." Her supporters argue she was thrust into the race and answered the call of the party. The election in South Carolina, a state Trump won by 18 points in 2024, is seen as a potential bellwether for Republican chances in other closely contested Senate races.