Darline Graham Nordone Sworn in as Interim South Carolina Senator

Darline Graham Nordone Becomes Interim Senator

Darline Graham Nordone is now the interim U.S. Senator for South Carolina, stepping into the seat after her brother, the late Senator Lindsey Graham, passed away. Chief congressional correspondent for Fox News, Chad Pergram, noted both the historical significance and the upcoming special primary election related to this appointment.

Trump Endorses Darline Graham Nordone

Former President Donald Trump expressed strong support for Darline Graham Nordone in a Truth Social post. He urged her to participate in the coming special Republican primary, calling her a “spectacular person” and a “true American Patriot.” According to Trump, she embodies a deep love for the United States and South Carolina, similar to her late brother.

Trump said, “I asked Darline, for the Good of our Nation, to run for the U.S. Senate in the Special Republican Primary on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. I hope Darline does this, in that there would be nobody better to honor the legacy of her beloved brother, Lindsey.”

A Historic Appointment

Graham Nordone now makes history as the first female senator from South Carolina and the first sister to assume such a role in the Senate. Despite being appointed temporarily, she is reported to have contemplated pursuing a full-term run.

Potential Candidacy

Sources suggest that Graham Nordone has already engaged in discussions about potentially launching a senatorial campaign. Her tenure was officially confirmed on Tuesday after Governor Henry McMaster’s appointment on Monday.

Filling the Senate Vacancy

Senator Tim Scott joined Graham Nordone during the announcement of her appointment. The filing period for the special primary extends from July 21 to July 28, with the election set for August 11.

The vacancy has prompted notable figures to consider candidacy, including Representatives Russell Fry, Nancy Mace, and Ralph Norman, alongside Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette.