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Can Darline Graham turn Trump support into a South Carolina win?
USA Today • • general
Key Points:
- Darline Graham, a political novice and sister of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, faces Rep. Ralph Norman in a South Carolina GOP special runoff election to fill Lindsey Graham's Senate seat.
- The race is seen as a test of former President Donald Trump's influence, with Trump endorsing Darline Graham despite her lack of political experience and a notable debate misstep on national security.
- Graham led the initial primary with about 33% of the vote but failed to secure a majority, leading to a runoff against Norman, who is backed by some prominent Republicans and viewed as a hardline conservative.
- Experts consider the race a toss-up due to Graham's debate gaffe, Norman's appeal to conservative "disruptor" voters, and uncertainty over voter turnout for the third Republican primary in two months.
- The winner will face Democratic nominee Annie Andrews in the November general election in a heavily Republican state, with Trump's backing and Lindsey Graham's legacy being key factors in the runoff outcome.
