Few have criticisms about Darline Graham, who recently stepped into the national spotlight by taking over her late brother Lindsey Graham’s Senate seat. “Darline’s wonderful,” remarked Kathy Bustos from Mount Pleasant during a Republican forum last week. Nonetheless, Bustos hesitates to support her in the special primary this Tuesday.
“It’s a kind gesture to let her complete his term, but I’m unsure if she’s prepared or qualified for election to the Senate,” she expressed.
This sentiment echoes among Republican voters adjusting to the surprise decision to fill Lindsey Graham’s position after his passing from an aortic tear. Though Darline Graham was often seen alongside him, she remains mostly unknown in South Carolina’s tight-knit political circles.
President Donald Trump endorsed Graham, and she’s backed by the National Republican Senatorial Committee, which has launched television ads for her. However, Graham’s absence from the campaign trail, largely due to her interim duties in Washington, poses challenges. Her appointment might hinder rather than help, as it limits her opportunity to engage personally with voters.
Graham faces several well-known opponents, including Representatives Russell Fry and Ralph Norman, and former Gov. Mark Sanford. The crowded competition makes a runoff likely on August 25.
At a Fourth District Republican Club meeting in Greenville, Graham communicated via a video message apologizing for her absence, emphasizing her commitment to her Senate responsibilities. “I’m in Washington working hard for you,” she assured, vowing to support Trump as a friend and ally.
Some of Graham’s supporters endorse her decision to stay in Washington instead of campaigning. Teresa Castrinos of Bluffton believes Graham prioritizes South Carolina’s interests. “I admire her for wanting to fulfill her role as senator,” Castrinos noted.
Unlike her well-known brother, Graham led a quieter life with her family in Lexington, South Carolina. Her career involved working in state government, aiding those with disabilities, and heading the South Carolina Commission for the Blind.
Her only public campaign event, prior to a Saturday candidate forum in Florence, was another forum in Lexington. Charles Brentnell from Greenville County supports her choice to remain in Washington during Senate sessions. “Keep the Senate focused on its business instead of taking unnecessary breaks,” he stated.
Appearing at Florence’s candidate event, Graham explained her use of notes due to exhaustion after Senate votes. “I haven’t slept in two days,” she said, attributing her tiredness to prioritizing Senate work over campaigning.
Though she attended one televised debate and supported Trump’s proposal for changing filibuster rules, she missed media interactions post-debate, resorting to a thumbs-up when asked about the event.
Graham’s campaign style contrasts sharply with her articulate late brother’s, preferring private engagements with media figures like Sean Hannity and Trey Gowdy, who eulogized Lindsey Graham. Her interactions with reporters have been limited.
During her first informal press session, Graham expressed regret about her absence, reiterating her dedication to Senate duties. “My job is to work in D.C. for everyone, but I hate missing opportunities to connect here,” she emphasized.
Gigi Bray from Charleston acknowledges Graham’s interim appointment as logical but groups her with those seeking change, hence supporting Sanford. “It’s an honor for her to occupy her brother’s seat until November, but change is needed,” Bray concluded, highlighting the necessity of seasoned government experience.
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