Who could replace Lindsey Graham as South Carolina senator? Here’s who’s in contention — and who’s out of the race | Today’s news
The death of Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham has set off an intense succession battle in South Carolina, with several prominent Republicans considering bids for one of the GOP’s safest seats in the state Senate.
While Gov. Henry McMaster will appoint an interim senator to serve through January, a long-term replacement will be decided through a special election expected to begin later this month.
Here’s a look at who’s in contention — and who’s ruled themselves out.
Trump backs Lindsey Graham’s sister for interim role
Quick answers to key questions
•5 QUESTIONS
President Donald Trump has recommended Darline Graham Nordone, Lindsey Graham’s sister, to serve as senator pro tempore until the end of the special election.
Governor Henry McMaster first appoints a senator pro tempore, and a special election process includes nominations beginning July 21, a primary on August 11, and a general election on November 3.
Potential candidates include Congresswoman Nancy Mace, Representative Ralph Norman, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Representative Russell Fry and former Congressman Trey Gowdy.
Joe Wilson has expressed a desire to remain in the House of Representatives to help maintain the Republican majority, while Nikki Haley has said she has no plans to run at this time.
Under South Carolina law, the governor appoints a senator pro tempore to serve until January, when a special election is held to select a permanent replacement, following a specific timeline for nominations and primaries.
President Donald Trump has nominated Darline Graham Nordone, Graham’s sister, to serve as an interim senator until a special election process is completed.
In a Truth Social post, Trump called on Gov. McMaster to nominate her, calling it a fitting tribute to the late senator.
“I have recommended to Gov. Henry McMaster, Lindsey Graham’s wonderful sister, Darline, to serve as senator pro tempore from the Great State of South Carolina. That would be a wonderful tribute to Lindsey, who loved her dearly!” Trump wrote.
Nordone shared a close relationship with Graham, who raised and later adopted her after their parents died when they were young.
Who is in dispute?
Nancy Mace
Congresswoman Nancy Mace is widely considered one of the frontrunners for the Republican nomination.
Although she has said she is not interested in the interim appointment, Mace has not ruled out running for the special election and has admitted she is considering a run for the Senate. Mace is also not seeking re-election to the House.
Rep. Ralph Norman confirmed he was considering a campaign and said he would announce his decision soon.
According to a Bloomberg report, Norman spoke with Trump about a possible endorsement.
Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette is another potential contender.
Evette, who lost this year’s Republican primary for governor after receiving Trump’s endorsement, was reportedly encouraged by supporters across South Carolina to enter the Senate race.
Representative Russell Fry, first elected to Congress in 2022, has also emerged as a possible candidate.
Fry represents the Myrtle Beach region and has established himself as a close Trump ally.
Former Congressman Trey Gowdy has also been mentioned as a possible participant.
The former federal prosecutor remains one of South Carolina’s best-known Republican figures despite leaving Congress several years ago.
Read also | ‘He called me last night’: Trump details last phone call before Graham’s death
Who is out of the race?
Joe Wilson
Representative Joe Wilson recused himself from the controversy.
Wilson said he spoke with President Trump and told him he intended to stay in the House to help Republicans hold on to their slim majority.
“My goal is to remain in the House to preserve my two-vote majority for the American people,” Wilson said.
Former South Carolina governor and former US ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has ruled out a run for the Senate.
Her spokesman said Haley “has no plans to run for office at this time.”
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has also indicated that he is not interested in replacing Graham.
Bessent has received inquiries about the seat but prefers to remain in the Trump administration, according to people familiar with the matter.
How will the exchange process work?
Gov. Henry McMaster will first appoint a senator pro tempore to serve until January.
The permanent replacement will be selected in a special election under South Carolina law:
July 21: Nomination period begins.
August 11: Special Republican and Democratic primaries.
August 25: Republican runoff, if required.
November 3: General Election.
Read also | Lindsey Graham represented the arc of his party
