Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley will not seek the U.S. Senate seat vacated by the death of longtime Sen. Lindsey Graham, her spokesperson confirmed.
Graham, 71, died Sunday following a brief illness at his Washington residence. Emergency dispatch audio from Saturday referenced a response for reported cardiac arrest, though his office has not confirmed an official cause of death.
Haley, who served as South Carolina’s governor and as U.N. ambassador during Trump’s first term, posted a tribute to Graham on Instagram Sunday. “Lindsey loved South Carolina deeply,” she wrote. “There was never a day he stopped fighting for the people of our state.”
The Succession Question
Despite her prominent role in Republican politics and deep ties to South Carolina, Haley’s spokesperson told Bloomberg she has no interest in running for the special election. Some social media commenters urged her to reconsider, calling her “the most qualified person” for the role.
Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., signaled openness to the race during a Fox News appearance Sunday. “I’m never going to shut the door,” Mace said. “I love the state of South Carolina.”
Mace acknowledged the possibility had crossed her mind but said her immediate focus remained on honoring Graham’s legacy and processing his death.
What Comes Next
Graham had represented South Carolina in the Senate since 2003, having previously served four terms in the House. He was known for his hawkish foreign policy positions and recent alliance with former President Donald Trump.
Under South Carolina law, the governor will appoint a temporary replacement. The special election is expected to occur alongside the November general election, with the winner serving the remainder of Graham’s term.
Graham had returned to Washington just one day before his death following a trip to Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to reaffirm support for Kyiv’s defense against Russia.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Political Desk contributed to this report.
