Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley will not run for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham, a spokesperson confirmed.
Graham died Sunday at age 71 following what his office described as a brief and sudden illness. Emergency dispatch audio from Saturday referenced a cardiac arrest response at his Washington residence, though his office has not confirmed the cause.
Haley, who served as South Carolina’s governor and as U.N. ambassador during President Donald Trump’s first term, declined to pursue the special election despite speculation from some observers. “She is not interested in running in the South Carolina Senate special election,” a Haley spokesperson told Bloomberg.
Haley’s Public Tribute
Haley posted a tribute to Graham on Instagram Sunday, writing that “Lindsey loved South Carolina deeply” and noting his decades of service in the military and public office. “There was never a day he stopped fighting for the people of our state,” she wrote.
The post drew hundreds of comments urging Haley to consider the race herself. Some commenters called her “the most qualified person” for the open seat, but Haley’s team maintained she would not enter the contest.
Other Potential Candidates
Rep. Nancy Mace, a South Carolina Republican, signaled openness to running for Graham’s seat. “I’m never going to shut the door,” Mace said on Fox News, adding that she wanted to first focus on honoring her colleague’s legacy.
Mace emphasized her love for South Carolina and indicated she would “take a look” at a potential campaign if constituents expressed support. Her comments came hours after Graham’s death was announced.
What Happens Next
South Carolina’s governor will appoint a temporary replacement to serve until a special election is held. The special election is expected to take place alongside the November general election.
Graham had served in the Senate since 2003 and was first elected to Congress in 2002. He had become one of Capitol Hill’s leading voices on national security and a close ally of President Trump in recent years.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Political Staff contributed to this report.
