Credited from: REUTERS
Senator Darline Graham has officially declared her intention to run for a full term in the U.S. Senate, aiming to replace her late brother, Lindsey Graham, who served for two decades. "I've made a decision," Graham stated during an interview with Fox News, expressing her commitment to honor her brother's legacy while acknowledging the challenges ahead, saying, "Will it be difficult? Yes. Absolutely," according to CBS News and Reuters.
President Donald Trump has publicly encouraged Graham to pursue this opportunity, stating she has his "Complete and Total Endorsement." This endorsement came after their meeting at the White House, where Trump emphasized that Graham is an ideal candidate to continue her brother's legacy, according to Los Angeles Times and Reuters.
The special Republican primary will take place on August 11, with a filing period opening soon. This timeline adds complexity to the GOP selection process, especially as other candidates like Rep. Ralph Norman have also announced their intention to seek the Senate seat. Graham was appointed by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to fulfill the remainder of her brother's term, which expires in early January, as noted by Los Angeles Times and CBS News.