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Mark Sanford to challenge Graham for late brother’s Senate seat
USA Today • • nation
Key Points:
- Former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, challenging Graham’s sister, Darline Graham, who was appointed to serve the remainder of the term.
- Sanford, a former congressman and two-term governor, emphasized his commitment to preserving the American dream in his campaign announcement on July 23.
- The Republican primary field includes Sanford, Darline Graham, U.S. Reps. Russell Fry and Ralph Norman, attorney Duke Buckner, and businessman Mark Lynch, with a recent poll showing Norman leading among declared candidates but Trey Gowdy as the overall frontrunner.
- President Donald Trump has endorsed Darline Graham, recommending her appointment and encouraging her to run in the special election.
- South Carolina voters will participate in a special primary runoff on August 11 to determine the Republican nominee for the November Senate election.
