Key facts
- Rep. Ralph Norman announced his candidacy for the South Carolina Senate seat.
- Norman aims to succeed the late Senator Lindsey Graham.
- Norman's campaign priorities include advancing President Trump's agenda and eliminating the filibuster.
- Donald Trump has endorsed Darline Graham, who holds the interim seat.
- Senators Mike Lee and Rick Scott have endorsed Norman's bid.
- The South Carolina special primary election is scheduled for August 11.
Republican Representative Ralph Norman has announced his intention to run for the U.S. Senate seat in South Carolina, seeking to succeed the late Senator Lindsey Graham. Norman stated his campaign will prioritize advancing President Donald Trump's agenda and eliminating the filibuster. He has secured endorsements from Senators Mike Lee and Rick Scott.
Despite Donald Trump's public endorsement of Darline Graham, Lindsey Graham's sister, for the position, Norman indicated his decision to run is not deterred. Darline Graham was recently appointed by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to fill her late brother's seat on an interim basis. Trump urged her to run for the full six-year term, highlighting her as a "WINNER."
The race is heating up with a special primary election scheduled for August 11, followed by a potential runoff on August 25. Norman's challenge without Trump's direct endorsement comes as a significant portion of Trump-backed candidates have historically won their primaries.