South Carolina Governor Appoints Lindsey Graham’s Sister to Fill Senate Seat
10 reported2 unconfirmed
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster has appointed Darline Graham to serve the remainder of her late brother, former Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham’s term, following his death in office at age 71. The appointment will last only a few months, as Graham was up for reelection this year and won his Republican primary last month. Republicans seeking the full term starting next year will compete in a special primary election on Aug. 11. It is not yet clear if Darline Graham intends to seek a full term. At a press conference Monday, Graham said, “Lindsey has always been there for me and now I will be there for him. It is such a privilege to finish some of his important work.” Top Republicans, including President Trump and Sen. Tim Scott, quickly supported the appointment. The Graham siblings’ close relationship was forged after their parents died just over a year apart, with Lindsey becoming his sister’s guardian and later adopting her. Even if Graham is sworn in quickly, her brother’s death could complicate Senate action, as he chaired the budget committee and served on the judiciary committee. Several South Carolina Republicans, including Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, have indicated interest in running for a full term.
What’s reported
Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Darline Graham to finish the term of her late brother, former Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham.
Lindsey Graham died in office Saturday at age 71.
The appointment lasts only a few months; Graham was up for reelection and won his Republican primary last month.
A special primary election for the full term is scheduled for Aug. 11.
It is not clear if Darline Graham intends to seek a full term.
President Trump recommended her in a social media post, calling it “a fabulous tribute.”
Sen. Tim Scott also blessed the choice and appeared with Graham at the press conference.
The Graham siblings became close after their parents died just over a year apart; Lindsey became Darline’s guardian and later adopted her.
Lindsey Graham chaired the budget committee and served on the judiciary committee.
Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman have indicated interest in running for a full term.
Open questions
Whether Darline Graham intends to seek a full term in the Senate.
How Lindsey Graham’s death will affect Senate action on the budget committee and judiciary committee.
Key figures
Darline Graham – sister of Lindsey Graham, appointed to fill his Senate term
Henry McMaster – Governor of South Carolina
Lindsey Graham – former Republican Senator from South Carolina (deceased)
President Trump – recommended Darline Graham’s appointment
Sen. Tim Scott – Republican Senator from South Carolina
Rep. Nancy Mace – South Carolina Republican
Rep. Ralph Norman – South Carolina Republican
Sources: NPR
