Trump’s Endorsements in South Carolina and Oklahoma Campaigns

President Donald Trump endorsed Senator Darline Graham at a campaign event in South Carolina. Trump highlighted Graham’s focus on affordability and military support. The rally took place on August 21, 2026, at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, prior to the GOP state primary in South Carolina.

Graham is succeeding her late brother, Lindsey Graham, and expressed gratitude for Trump’s endorsement. The political influence of Trump’s endorsements is being tested in Republican primaries with statewide runoff elections scheduled in South Carolina and Oklahoma.

In South Carolina, Trump supports Senator Darline Graham for the Republican Senate nomination runoff. The race seeks to fill the seat of her late brother, Lindsey Graham, who passed away at age 71. Trump also backs former state budget secretary Mike Mazzei for the GOP gubernatorial nomination in Oklahoma, as current Governor Kevin Stitt is term-limited.

Both candidates face competitive contests. Georgia is hosting a special election runoff to fill a congressional seat vacated following Democratic Rep. David Scott’s death, where the winner will impact the Republican House majority.

Darline Graham faces Ralph Norman in South Carolina, with the winner becoming the Republican Senate nominee. The candidates had finished first and second in a special primary, advancing to a runoff after failing to secure the majority vote.

Norman had unsuccessfully campaigned for the GOP gubernatorial nomination in South Carolina. He questions Trump’s endorsement of Graham, citing fiscal concerns alongside former governor Mark Sanford’s support.

Trump’s previous endorsement of Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette for governor ended in a runoff loss. His endorsements aim to demonstrate influence, but success varies. The outcome in South Carolina may reflect Trump’s sway in the state.

In Oklahoma’s gubernatorial race, Mazzei trails slightly behind Attorney General Gentner Drummond after initial voting. The winner of the runoff is favored in the general election in the Republican-dominated state.

Trump boasts powerful GOP endorsement records, yet some gubernatorial picks have struggled. GOP strategist Ryan Williams comments that endorsements provide boosts, but candidates need strong campaigns to achieve wins.

Georgia’s congressional seat contest includes Democrats Everton Blair and Marcye Scott, vying to complete David Scott’s term. The race occurs amid broader election dynamics influenced by Trump’s endorsements.