U.S. Representative William Timmons of South Carolina has addressed rumors about his intentions regarding the vacant U.S. Senate seat following the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham at age 71. Timmons clarified his political stance in a statement posted online, making it known that he is not backing fellow Republicans Nancy Mace or Ralph Norman for Graham’s seat.
“Unless the South Carolina General Assembly changes state law, any current member of Congress already on the ballot for reelection who is elected to replace Senator Graham would leave their House seat vacant on January 3, 2027. I have told Speaker [Mike] Johnson that I will not do anything that increases the number of votes he must secure to be reelected Speaker in January,” Timmons stated.
Timmons emphasized the importance of a Republican House majority over individual political ambitions and stated, “I also want to say this plainly: I cannot support Ralph Norman or Nancy Mace as Senator Lindsey Graham’s successor. This is not personal. It is about what South Carolina deserves. Senator Graham’s seat should not simply be filled. His legacy should be honored,” he concluded.
What To Know
Speculation has intensified as this race is anticipated to be one of South Carolina’s most significant political events in years. According to state law, Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham’s sister, Darline Graham, to serve temporarily for the remainder of the term. A Republican primary will select the party’s nominee for the general election in November.
Darline Graham was sworn into the Senate, with backing from former President Donald Trump. Although Timmons distances himself from speculation, others, including Mace, Norman, and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, are considered possible candidates. Given the state’s conservative leaning, the GOP primary is crucial.
Upon the death of a nominee under South Carolina law, a special-election process is initiated. Candidate filing is scheduled from July 21 to July 28. The Republican special primary will occur on August 11, with a runoff on August 25 if necessary. The general election is set for November 3.
Political professor Craig Agranoff commented, “With Republicans clinging to a narrow majority, stepping aside to avoid complicating Speaker Johnson’s position is a pretty clear-eyed, party-first move.” He further noted that Timmons’ refusal to support Mace or Norman suggests reservations about their ability to uphold Graham’s legacy.
Agranoff also highlighted the need for Republicans to select a unifying candidate rather than reigniting past conflicts. Lt. Governor Pamela Evette and businessman Mark Lynch are among potential candidates. The party’s nominee is expected to win in November, stressing the importance of choosing wisely to prevent disruption.
Newsweek sought comments from Mace and Norman’s offices, leaving messages with editors for further input.