Darline Graham, who was appointed to temporarily fill the Senate seat of her late brother Lindsey Graham, has been asked by former President Trump to run for a full term in the upcoming special election scheduled for November 11, 2026. Trump announced his endorsement on social media the day after Darline Graham was sworn into the Senate on Tuesday, just three days after Lindsey Graham's unexpected death from cardiac arrest.

Trump stated, “I hope Darline does this, in that there would be nobody better to honor the legacy of her beloved brother, Lindsey. Darline, who comes from an absolutely incredible family, has been a WINNER all of her life and, should she accept, has my Complete and Total Endorsement in the Special Election for U.S. Senate.” He also praised Lindsey Graham as “one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known,” noting that his sister shares his deep love for the country and the State of South Carolina.

Lindsey Graham had been up for reelection this year and had recently fended off a primary challenge before his sudden passing. Mark Lynch, a businessman and founder of Christian-based addiction recovery programs who lost to Lindsey Graham in June’s primary, has already announced his intention to run again, offering what he calls “true conservative leadership” for South Carolina.

If Darline Graham decides to run, Trump's endorsement could deter other Republican candidates from entering the special primary race to become the party’s nominee.

Sources