President Donald Trump recommended on Monday, July 13, 2026, that South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appoint Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, to serve out the remainder of Graham's Senate term, which ends in early January 2027.

Trump posted on social media, "I recommended, to Governor Henry McMaster, Lindsey Graham's wonderful sister, Darline, to serve as interim Senator from the Great State of South Carolina. This would be a fabulous tribute to Lindsey, who loved her dearly!"

Governor McMaster's office announced a press conference scheduled for 4 p.m. ET on the same day to reflect on Graham's life and service and to announce the appointment decision.

The appointed interim senator will serve until the term expires in January, with a special Republican primary set for August 11 to select Graham's permanent successor.

Senator Lindsey Graham, who died on Saturday, July 11, 2026, had a close relationship with his sister. Their mother passed away in 1976 when Graham was 20 and Nordone was 12. South Carolina Senator Tim Scott described Darline Graham Nordone as "a wonderful placeholder" during a Monday morning interview.

Sources