On August 21, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump attended a campaign rally in Myrtle Beach, SC, alongside Sen. Tim Scott and Sen. John Barrasso. The event was in support of Republican Senate candidate Sen. Darline Graham ahead of her runoff election against Congressman Ralph Norman.
South Carolina voters face a decision on Tuesday about who will replace the late Sen. Lindsey Graham on the Republican ballot in November. After the June primary, he was nominated for his fifth Senate term but passed away from a heart condition on July 11. South Carolina GOP Governor Henry McMaster then appointed Darline Graham to complete her brother’s term.
“I’m doing this to honor Lindsey. That’s why I’m here,” President Trump said at the rally. “Darline, we got to win that race.”
President Trump’s endorsement and financial backing of Graham, amounting to over $827,000 from his super PAC MAGA Inc., highlight his significant investment in this election. This involvement is notable due to Trump historically limiting such financial endorsements, especially during close primaries.
Darline Graham, having previously secured 33% of the vote during the special election against Norman’s 25%, faces challenges due to her lack of political experience, although she inherits a robust campaign framework from her brother. During a debate hosted by NewsMax, her admitted unfamiliarity with national security issues was criticized.
Conversely, Ralph Norman has extensive experience as a five-term Congressman. He previously pursued the governorship but took third place. During this Senate run, Norman leverages his political background and appeals to voters wary of Trump’s strong influence. His alignment with former Governor Nikki Haley, who endorsed him amid his bid against Trump, has resulted in substantial financial backing.
Despite the criticism, Darline Graham’s non-political background serves as an advantage amid growing anti-establishment sentiment. She emphasized President Trump’s success without prior political service during the rally.
The winner between Graham and Norman will contest Democrat nominee Annie Andrews in November. South Carolina is predicted to retain its Republican majority with this Senate seat.
South Carolina Public Radio’s Luis-Alfredo Garcia contributed to this report.
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