Republican Sen. Darline Graham defeated Rep. Ralph Norman in Tuesday’s runoff election to claim the party’s nomination for South Carolina’s Senate seat, securing 52% of the vote to Norman’s 48%. The victory places Graham on the general election ballot to replace her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham, who died unexpectedly on July 11 after an aortic dissection. Graham, appointed by Gov. Henry McMaster to serve the remainder of her brother’s term, will now face Democratic nominee Annie Andrews in the November general election.
Runoff outcome sets up November contest in deep-red state
Graham’s win in the runoff follows her 57% victory in June’s GOP primary, where she defeated challenger Mark Lynch with 29% of the vote. In the runoff, Graham carried 34 of South Carolina’s 46 counties, including a decisive 46-point margin in Horry County, where former President Donald Trump held a rally in her support last week. The South Carolina Election Commission reported Graham’s total vote share as 52.1%, while Norman received 47.9%.
Trump’s endorsement cited as key factor in narrow victory
Trump publicly backed Graham in the runoff, writing on Truth Social that Norman had “ruined his career” by endorsing Nikki Haley’s 2024 presidential campaign, which Trump opposed. Norman’s campaign did not respond to requests for comment on the endorsement’s impact. Trump’s influence in the race was a focal point for observers, with some analysts noting his ability to sway voters in a state where he remains a dominant figure despite recent setbacks in other contests.
Democratic strategist questions Trump’s clout after close result
Chuck Rocha, a Democratic strategist and former advisor to Sen. Bernie Sanders, characterized Graham’s 52% runoff win as unexpectedly narrow given Trump’s endorsement. Rocha, appearing on NewsNation’s “Cuomo”, stated, “I am going to say something’s going on when Donald Trump can only deliver 52 percent,” while acknowledging the race’s special election context. He also highlighted that more than 40% of voters in June’s primary backed candidates other than Lindsey Graham, suggesting intraparty divisions.
General election odds favor Republican in South Carolina
As of Tuesday, Decision Desk HQ rated Graham’s chances of winning the November election at 81%, reflecting South Carolina’s strong Republican lean. The state has not elected a Democratic senator since 1962, and Graham’s name recognition as the late senator’s sister may further bolster her prospects. Andrews, a former state representative, has not yet released a statement on the runoff results.
Key dates and next steps
The November 5 general election will determine who succeeds Lindsey Graham for the remaining two years of his term. Graham’s appointment by McMaster means she will continue serving in the Senate until the election, regardless of the runoff outcome.