Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., has publicly endorsed former Rep. Trey Gowdy as his preferred candidate to replace the late Sen. Lindsey Graham in a special election. Scott praised Gowdy's experience and alignment with Graham's policy areas, including foreign policy and judicial appointments. Meanwhile, a new Emerson College poll shows a tight race among potential GOP candidates, with Rep. Ralph Norman leading at 16%, followed by Mark Lynch at 13%, and Reps. Nancy Mace and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette each at 10%. The Republican primary will determine the nominee to challenge Democrat Annie Andrews in November.
Key Developments
Sen. Tim Scott has consistently reached out to Trey Gowdy, a former House member and current Fox News host, to consider running for Graham's Senate seat. Scott highlighted Gowdy's prosecutorial background and foreign policy expertise as assets, noting his potential to fill Graham's role on the Senate Judiciary Committee. Gowdy, who retired from Congress in 2019, has not yet confirmed his candidacy.
Polling and Candidate Field
The Emerson College poll, released Thursday, indicates no clear frontrunner in the GOP primary. Norman, who has served in the House since 2017, leads the pack, while Lynch, who previously challenged Graham in a primary, has already declared his candidacy. Mace, a first-term representative, and Evette, the lieutenant governor, also have significant support. Gov. Henry McMaster and Sen. Russell Fry trail in the poll.
Political Landscape
Graham's death has created a scramble within the South Carolina GOP, with multiple candidates weighing bids. Justin Vaughn, a political science professor, noted that the compressed election timeline favors candidates with strong name recognition and resources, as well as support from President Trump. The Republican Party must quickly select a nominee to compete in the November general election.