Trump’s Endorsement in South Carolina Campaign and Other State Races

President Donald Trump endorsed Senator Darline Graham during a campaign event in South Carolina. On Friday, August 21, 2026, Trump praised Graham at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center for her stance on affordability and military support. This endorsement comes ahead of the Republican primary in South Carolina.

Darline Graham, who succeeds her late brother, Lindsey Graham, expressed gratitude for Trump’s support. The political influence of President Trump within the GOP and the impact of his endorsements were put to the test during Tuesday’s runoff elections in South Carolina and Oklahoma.

In South Carolina, Graham faces Ralph Norman in the Republican Senate nomination runoff. Graham aims to succeed Lindsey Graham, who passed away unexpectedly at 71. Trump also supports Mike Mazzei for the Republican gubernatorial nomination in Oklahoma, where Kevin Stitt’s term is limited.

Both Trump-backed candidates are engaged in competitive races. Additionally, a special election runoff in Georgia aims to fill a congressional seat left vacant by Democratic Rep. David Scott’s passing in April. The victor will impact the fragile Republican majority in the House.

Darline Graham, appointed by term-limited Governor Henry McMaster to complete her brother’s term, is supported by Trump ally Russell Fry and Senator Tim Scott. Meanwhile, Ralph Norman showcases his support for Trump, questioning the backing of Graham and gaining the endorsement of fiscal conservative Mark Sanford.

Trump’s endorsement isn’t always a guaranteed success in South Carolina. Pamela Evette, backed by Trump for the gubernatorial nomination against Alan Wilson, lost the runoff election despite leading the primary.

Ralph Norman, supported by former Governor Nikki Haley, endorsed Haley over Trump in the 2024 primaries. Trump’s strategist noted his visit to South Carolina aimed to consolidate his endorsement strength.

In Oklahoma, Mike Mazzei finished slightly behind Gentner Drummond in the GOP primary. The runoff winner will likely have an advantage in the general election within the Republican-dominated state.

President Trump highlights his strong endorsement track record, though some gubernatorial choices like Burt Jones, Randy Feenstra, Megan Degenfelder, and Mike Lindell fell short.

GOP strategist Ryan Williams acknowledges Trump’s firm party grip; however, underlying candidate issues can challenge the power of an endorsement.

In Georgia, Democrats Everton Blair and Marcye Scott compete to serve the remainder of Scott’s congressional term in the House.