Darline Graham Nordone Appointed to Serve Late Brother Lindsey Graham’s Senate Term

Darline Graham Nordone has been appointed to fill the remaining months of her late brother Lindsey Graham’s Senate term after his recent passing. Although new to office, Nordone has long been involved in her brother’s public service. She frequently supported him at speeches, appearances, and campaign ads.

Nordone’s connection with Graham is rooted deeply in their personal and political history. After the death of both parents in quick succession, Graham, then 22, became the legal guardian of his 13-year-old sister. This life-altering event occurred as Graham was starting law school at the University of South Carolina. He shifted focus to ensure his sister’s well-being.

“I can remember the day my father passed away, standing in the living room of that house, absolutely scared to death,” Nordone shared with NPR in 2015. “Lindsey wrapped his arms around me and promised me he would always be there for me and always take care of me.”

Graham consistently traveled from school in Columbia to Seneca to check on Nordone, eventually becoming her legal guardian. As a military lawyer in the Air Force, he adopted her, securing her military benefits. This bond with his sister remained vital throughout Graham’s life.

Graham, who never married or had children, humorously suggested during his 2016 presidential run that his sister could act as a first lady. Their close relationship was evident in public displays, such as when Nordone accompanied Graham filing his candidacy paperwork in March.

“What have I learned in this life I’ve led? I take nothing for granted. I count every blessing, every day,” Graham once reflected. “I understand what a blessing my life has been and the only way I can pay you back for the blessings I’ve received is to be the most thoughtful, relevant, aggressive senator.”

Nordone, now a wife, mother, and grandmother, has also worked with people with disabilities. Graham often highlighted her success as a significant achievement in his life.

Bob McAlister, a former consultant on Graham’s campaigns, noted the siblings’ challenging upbringing and its impact on Graham’s drive. “He grew up with nothing,” McAlister said. “The back of the bar where he and his sister grew up was always kind of top of mind to him.”

Their shared history became a theme in Graham’s political narrative. Nordone appeared in his 2014 campaign ad, emphasizing the commitment Graham made after their parents’ deaths.

“He never let me down. Never. I don’t see how he did it, to take on the responsibility of raising a little sister,” Nordone expressed. “That came from within for Lindsey.”

President Donald Trump endorsed Nordone for the temporary Senate position before Governor Henry McMaster’s announcement, describing the choice as “a fabulous tribute to Lindsey, who loved her dearly.”