Sen. Darline Graham Wins Republican Primary Runoff
Senator Darline Graham has emerged victorious over Representative Ralph Norman in South Carolina’s Republican primary runoff. NBC News projects her win as a significant achievement for President Donald Trump, who supported her candidacy following her brother Lindsey Graham’s passing six weeks ago. With most votes counted, Graham led Norman by approximately 52% to 48%.
Trump’s Support for Graham
President Trump fully backed Graham, encouraging her to run for a six-year term after her appointment by Governor Henry McMaster. He organized an in-person rally in Myrtle Beach and a tele-rally, along with a late $830,000 push from his super PAC to boost Graham’s campaign. During the rally, Trump highlighted Graham’s dedication to putting America first and urged voters to support her in honor of Lindsey Graham.
Facing the November General Election
Senator Graham, aged 62, will now face Democrat Annie Andrews, a pediatrician, in the upcoming November general election. Graham is favored in the conservative state where her brother served in the Senate and House for over 30 years. To defeat Norman, Graham overcame criticisms of nepotism and inexperience, as she hadn’t previously held public office, though she led a state agency assisting the blind.
Initial Primary Results and Campaign Challenges
In the initial primary, Graham secured 33% of the vote, falling short of avoiding a runoff. The runoff campaign faced hurdles, including Graham admitting her lack of national security knowledge during a debate, despite her brother’s Air Force service and national security prominence. Graham emphasized her focus on domestic policy, particularly affordability, which President Trump supported.
Graham’s Campaign and Legacy
Despite challenges, she promoted herself as a continuation of her brother’s legacy and a reliable Trump supporter. Her campaign advertising highlighted her role as the lead sponsor of a stringent Russia sanctions bill and her vote confirming Todd Blanche as attorney general.
Political Context and Rivals
Graham’s victory concludes a turbulent period in South Carolina Republican politics. Lindsey Graham’s death on July 11 was followed by her appointment and the subsequent crowded field of candidates seeking to replace him. Norman had provoked Trump’s displeasure by endorsing Nikki Haley and opposing key Trump policies, though he later voted for modifications to the president’s tax-and-spending package.
Runoff Division Among Conservatives
The runoff revealed divisions among conservatives, with Graham backed by Trump, McMaster, and Senator Tim Scott, while Norman secured endorsements from figures like Mark Meadows, Nancy Mace, Mark Sanford, and Jim DeMint. Norman performed well in his congressional district’s upstate areas, whereas Graham prevailed in populous coastal regions and around Columbia.
Impact of Trump’s Support
Trump’s presence in South Carolina and Fry’s endorsement benefited Graham in Horry County, where the Myrtle Beach rally was held. Initially trailing in the primary, Graham significantly outperformed Norman in the runoff, drawing strong support in the area.