Darlene Graham Nordone, the sister of late Senator Lindsey Graham, is running to fill his South Carolina Senate seat after receiving President Donald Trump’s endorsement..
Nordone was appointed to serve the remainder of her brother’s term following his unexpected death last month from an aortic tear. Trump has publicly backed her candidacy and encouraged her to compete in the special primary election scheduled for August 11.
What Happened
Nordone made her first major campaign appearance before Republican voters in Lexington, South Carolina on Saturday, addressing a crowded candidate forum. She told attendees that she never anticipated entering politics before her brother’s death prompted her to answer “President Trump’s call to serve,” according to remarks made at the event.
She emphasized her commitment to representing South Carolina’s interests and advancing Trump’s policy agenda. “I’m here today because I’m answering President Trump’s call to serve. I want to stand up for South Carolina, and I want to fight for President Trump’s agenda,” Nordone said at the forum.
Nine Republican candidates participated in the Saturday forum, each receiving five minutes to address voters. Former Governor Mark Sanford focused on federal spending reduction, while U.S. Representatives Ralph Norman and Russell Fry highlighted their working-class backgrounds and legislative priorities.
The Primary Race
Nordone enters the race with limited political experience compared to other candidates. She acknowledged her lack of elected office experience but stated that her personal and professional background has given her practical knowledge of budgeting, healthcare costs, and federal policy impacts.
An informal straw poll conducted after the forum showed Nordone finishing first, narrowly ahead of Fry and Norman. Voters indicated they wanted additional time to evaluate candidates before the August 11 primary.
Attendees cited Trump’s endorsement and support for his legislative priorities as key factors in their decision-making process. One voter, Charles Brentnell, said his top choices aligned with candidates backing Trump’s call for Congress to shorten its scheduled recess to advance legislation.
Moving Forward
Nordone’s campaign follows recent memorial services held in Washington and South Carolina for her late brother. She became known to many South Carolina residents primarily through her brother’s public profile, including their modest upbringing and early loss of their parents.
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