Darline Graham Receives Trump’s Endorsement for U.S. Senate Seat

President Donald Trump announced his support for Darline Graham to pursue a full term in the U.S. Senate, stepping into the role of her late brother, Lindsey Graham. Trump expressed his endorsement via social media, describing Darline Graham as a ‘WINNER all of her life,’ and encouraged her to run, adding, ‘RUN, DARLINE, RUN!’

Darline Graham has shared her interest in running for the Senate position following discussions with Trump at the White House. This endorsement significantly impacts the race to fill Lindsey Graham’s Senate seat, following his passing last weekend. Trump had previously considered endorsing Representative Russell Fry for this role. Other political figures such as Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Ralph Norman, and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette are also potential candidates.

The timeline for the special primary election has been established. Candidates can file their candidacy from July 21 to July 28, with the primary scheduled for August 11. Lindsey Graham’s funeral arrangements include services in Washington on July 28 and South Carolina on July 29. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has appointed Darline Graham to serve the remainder of her brother’s term, ending in January.

Darline Graham expressed gratitude for the appointment, acknowledging her brother’s support throughout her life. She stated, ‘Lindsey has always been there for me. And now, I will be there for him.’ Lindsey Graham, who died at the age of 71 due to an aortic tear, had served his state without a direct family of his own, with Darline often supporting his public engagements and campaigns. After the passing of their parents, Lindsey Graham became Darline’s legal guardian and later adopted her, ensuring she received military benefits.

Trump’s interest in an alliance with Darline Graham could indicate his strategic move to strengthen his Senate agenda. Despite a few ups and downs in their relationship, Lindsey Graham was a critical ally to Trump in the Senate. After his passing, Trump remarked that Lindsey was ‘like a member of the family.’ Governor McMaster’s decision to appoint Darline Graham was not meant as a temporary measure, according to an insider, although there was no expectation that she would pursue the seat herself.

Senator Tim Scott, a Republican colleague from South Carolina, refrained from endorsing any primary candidate due to his role as chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee. However, he acknowledged Darline Graham’s potential, stating, ‘the truth of the matter is that Darline has so far been off to a remarkable start.’ He added, ‘Why not her?’ when discussing her candidacy.

Although Lindsey Graham had a substantial campaign fund, Darline Graham will not have direct access to those resources if she chooses to run. Federal regulations permit the transfer of only $2,000 from Lindsey Graham’s campaign to Darline’s potential campaign. However, a Supreme Court decision allows the National Republican Senatorial Committee to spend unlimited amounts in coordination with her campaign efforts.