Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of late Senator Lindsey Graham, was sworn in as South Carolina’s first female senator on Tuesday. Governor Henry McMaster appointed her to complete the remainder of her brother’s term, which runs until January 2027. A special election will be held in November to fill the seat for the next six-year term.
Graham Nordone, 62, has no prior experience in elected office but has worked extensively with people with disabilities and served on the South Carolina Commission for the Blind. She and her brother shared a close bond after their parents died when she was 13, with Lindsey Graham becoming her legal guardian.
The appointment was supported by both Republicans and Democrats, with nearly the entire Republican conference and several Democratic senators attending her swearing-in ceremony. President Donald Trump endorsed her appointment, calling it a 'fabulous tribute' to Lindsey Graham.
Criticism of the appointment came from 'The View' co-hosts Sunny Hostin and Joy Behar, who questioned her qualifications and labeled the appointment a 'DEI hire.' Hostin argued that South Carolina should have elected a woman rather than appointing one. She also criticized Graham Nordone’s lack of political experience, noting her background as a certified optician.
Graham Nordone briefly spoke to reporters after taking the oath, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve.