‘Darline is not Lindsey’: Could a Graham really lose South Carolina for the GOP?

Key Points:

• Darline Graham, appointed to finish her late brother Lindsey Graham’s Senate term, is facing a competitive race in South Carolina against Democrat Annie Andrews, with her campaign under scrutiny for lack of urgency and strategy.
• Unlike her brother, Lindsey Graham, known for his strong campaign presence and fundraising, Darline is more reserved and cautious, often relying on notes and focusing on domestic issues rather than national security.
• Republicans have expressed concern over Darline Graham’s campaign performance, though recent increased ad spending and endorsements, including from Trump, aim to bolster her chances ahead of the November election.
• Graham’s campaign is heavily focusing on anti-trans messaging against Andrews, a pediatrician, but some GOP strategists warn this may be a misstep in the current political climate.
• Democrats see the race as competitive due to voter frustration with high prices and Washington corruption, with fresh investments and a new super PAC supporting Andrews, who positions herself as an independent voice for South Carolina.