In Columbia, S.C., President Donald Trump announced his endorsement for Darline Graham, sister of the late Lindsey Graham, to run for a full term in the U.S. Senate. He expressed his support through social media, calling her a lifelong “WINNER” and granting her his “Complete and Total Endorsement.” He also encouraged her with the words, “RUN, DARLINE, RUN!”
Trump discussed a possible campaign with Darline Graham at the White House. Although she has privately shown interest, four individuals familiar with the talks confirmed these deliberations. The president’s support impacts the competition for Lindsey Graham’s seat, following his recent passing. Previously, Trump had considered backing Rep. Russell Fry for the candidacy. Other political figures like Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Ralph Norman, and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette are also potential contenders. The filing for the special primary runs from July 21 to July 28, with the primary scheduled for August 11.
On Friday, details for Lindsey Graham’s funeral were announced, with services set for July 28 in Washington and July 29 in South Carolina. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appointed Darline Graham to complete her brother’s term, which concludes in January.
“Lindsey has always been there for me. And now, I will be there for him,”
Darline Graham remarked emotionally. As she becomes the first woman to represent South Carolina in the Senate, her words stirred significant support from those present, including staff and campaign advisers of her late brother. Lindsey Graham, who died at 71, suffered from aortic tear, as per a preliminary medical report. Though he never started a family, he was a legal guardian and later adopted his sister after their parents passed when Darline was 13, ensuring military benefits for her.
Trump’s connection with Darline Graham suggests strategic motives to gain another ally in the Senate. Despite past tensions, Lindsey Graham was a close confidant to Trump. After Graham’s passing, Trump referred to him as “like a member of the family.” Governor McMaster, in appointing Darline Graham, did not foreshadow her running for the seat, but someone familiar with McMaster’s perspective shared that he did not expect her candidacy.
Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, who is also the chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, stated he won’t endorse any primary candidate. However, personally, he indicated willingness to reconsider as a voter. Discussing Darline Graham as a candidate, Scott posed, “Why not her?”
While Lindsey Graham had substantial campaign funds, limitations apply to transferring these funds directly to Darline Graham. Bradley A. Smith, a former Federal Election Commission chairman, indicated the federal rules cap such transfers at $2,000. Yet, no cap exists on how much could be transferred to the National Republican Senatorial Committee, allowing coordination with Darline Graham’s campaign. Smith assures that the party would likely ensure adequate funding support despite the restrictions.
— Reporting by Meg Kinnard. Further contributions by Kim from Washington and Thomas Beaumont from Des Moines, Iowa.