Darline Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, was sworn in on Tuesday afternoon, July 14, 2026, to fill the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by the unexpected death of her older brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham, three days earlier.

Though her legal name since marriage is Darline Graham Nordone, a spokesperson confirmed she will serve under the name Darline Graham in the Senate. According to records, this marks the first time a sibling has been appointed to replace a deceased senator.

Graham had not previously been a public figure or politician but is expected to be a reliable vote for the Republican majority. South Carolina Representative Ralph Norman remarked moments before her swearing-in.

In a statement made the day before her appointment, Darline Graham called the opportunity “an honor,” adding, “Lindsey has always been there for me, and now I will be there for him.”

The late Lindsey Graham had legally adopted his sister after joining the Air Force to ensure she could receive military benefits. Reflecting on their relationship, Lindsey Graham said in a 2015 C-SPAN interview, “Of all the things that have happened in my life, her turning out so well is the highlight of it by far.” Darline Graham also told CNN in 2015, “So I knew he was doing what he could to take care of me, and it was best for us.”

Darline Graham will serve the remainder of her brother’s term, which is set to last until early January 2027.

Sources