South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has appointed Darline Graham Nordone to serve the remainder of her late brother Lindsey Graham’s term in the United States Senate. The appointment, announced on Monday, July 13th, 2026, ensures the seat is quickly filled to maintain the Republican majority of 53 senators in the 100-member chamber.

Nordone will hold the position until January 3rd, 2027. She pledged to work diligently during her tenure, stating, “I promise to work hard over the next several months to support the president and carry forward the efforts of my brother on behalf of the citizens of South Carolina and the United States.”

The selection follows President Donald Trump's endorsement of Nordone for the role. Lindsey Graham, who passed away on Saturday, July 11th, 2026, at age 71, had previously expressed confidence in his sister's capabilities, saying, “If she took a role on, she would be a great representative of our country.”

Notably, while running for president in 2016, Graham mentioned that Nordone would be part of his support network if he won.

This appointment comes amid ongoing political developments in the United States and maintains the Republican presence in the Senate.

Sources