South Carolina Republicans split over Darline Graham’s ‘eyebrow-raising’ debate performance

Key Points:

• President Donald Trump is holding a rally in Myrtle Beach to support Darline Graham in the South Carolina Republican Senate runoff, despite recent debate missteps by Graham and some GOP backlash against Trump's endorsement.
• Graham struggled in a debate when questioned about Taiwan and the South China Sea, admitting she was "not that informed about national security," which has fueled criticism from Republicans and raised doubts about her readiness.
• Trump has actively worked to consolidate GOP support for Graham, including calling her primary opponents to seek their endorsements, but some remain neutral or support her opponent, Rep. Ralph Norman.
• The runoff race has become more contentious, with outside groups backing Graham heavily, while Norman is self-funding his campaign and gaining endorsements from some local GOP figures who resist perceived outside influence.
• Despite controversy, Graham has secured endorsements from prominent Republicans like Sen. Tim Scott and anti-abortion groups, while critics continue to question her qualifications and the influence of nepotism in her candidacy.