The Republican race to succeed the late Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina is emerging as a significant test of former President Donald Trump's influence within the party, particularly his endorsement power in primary contests. The filing period for the Aug. 11 primary opened this week.
Sen. Darline Graham, who was appointed last week to fill the remainder of her late brother's term, announced her candidacy for a full six-year term following a meeting with Trump, who publicly offered her his "complete and total endorsement." However, Trump's backing has not deterred other Republican hopefuls from entering the contest.
Veteran Republican strategist Ryan Williams noted that while "the Trump endorsement is a major boost for any candidacy, it doesn’t necessarily give you a lock on the seat." He added, "politics is all about timing. You’ve got to seize the opportunity when it presents itself."
Republican Rep. Ralph Norman, who previously sought the GOP gubernatorial nomination, announced his intention to run for the Senate over the weekend. On Monday, Republican Rep. Russell Fry also entered the race. Businessman Mark Lynch, who lost to Lindsey Graham in the last GOP Senate primary, is also seeking the nomination again. Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette has indicated she may run as well.
Republican consultant Dave Wilson suggested that "South Carolina voters want to have a choice and not be told who they need to be voting for." He also observed that Trump's quick endorsement of Darline Graham was symbolic but that "his endorsement didn’t carry as much weight as people thought it was going to" in recent South Carolina elections, referencing an endorsement in a prior gubernatorial primary where his preferred candidate lost a runoff.
Fry and Norman, both considered allies of Trump in the House, are emphasizing their alignment with the former president. Fry declared he would be "President Trump’s favorite U.S. Senator" and a "MAGA fighter." Norman stated he is "running to represent the people of South Carolina in the U.S. Senate because we need a fighter who will stand with President Trump and carry on Lindsey Graham’s legacy!" Norman is also highlighting his support for Trump's SAVE America Act.
Conservative Senators Mike Lee of Utah and Rick Scott of Florida have endorsed Norman, citing his support for Trump's election reform bill. Norman also has the backing of Turning Point USA's political arm.
Despite the challenges, Darline Graham has secured endorsements from prominent Senate Republicans, including Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso, who called her an "excellent senator." Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated he is remaining neutral but acknowledged Graham is a "strong candidate."
Pundits consider Darline Graham a frontrunner due to Trump's endorsement and her name recognition. The winner of the GOP primary is expected to be the favorite against Democratic nominee Annie Andrews in the general election.
Rep. Nancy Mace, who has previously clashed with Trump, announced she would not run for the Senate seat, despite exploring a run. The filing period for the primary closes next Tuesday, July 28. A runoff election will be held on August 25 if no candidate secures over 50% of the vote in the August 11 primary.