Darline Graham, Ralph Norman Advance to South Carolina Senate Runoff

Sen. Darline Graham and Rep. Ralph Norman will advance to a runoff on August 25 for the South Carolina Republican Senate nomination.

Graham secured roughly 32% of the vote in Tuesday's special primary, while Norman received 24%. No candidate achieved the 50% threshold required to avoid a runoff. Graham, the sister of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, was appointed to fill his term and received an endorsement from President Donald Trump. Norman, a retiring congressman, also sought Trump's backing.

Graham stated her focus is on pocketbook issues, defending our South Carolina values, and delivering for the people she represents. Norman encouraged his supporters to hit every part of the state in the coming weeks. Ten candidates competed in the primary to replace Lindsey Graham, who died on July 11. The winner of the runoff will face Democrat Annie Andrews in the November general election.

Sen. Tim Scott, chair of the NRSC, announced he voted for Graham and will support her in the runoff. Graham previously served as commissioner of the South Carolina Commission for the Blind and has introduced a bill sanctioning Russia and cast a vote to confirm the new attorney general.