Lindsey Graham’s Sister Announces Senate Campaign For Full Term

Sen. Darline Graham announced Monday that she will seek a full six-year term representing South Carolina in the U.S. Senate, officially entering the Republican primary just days after being appointed to complete the remainder of her late brother Lindsey Graham‘s term.

Speaking during an appearance on Fox News, Graham said she had made her decision after much prayer and reflection, declaring, “I’m in.” She said she felt at peace with the choice and believed she was ready to continue serving the people of South Carolina.

President Trump strongly encouraged Graham to run following her appointment and has publicly endorsed her campaign. He praised her character and experience, saying there was nobody better to carry on her brother’s legacy of public service.

Graham was appointed by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster after the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham earlier this month. She was sworn into office to serve the remainder of the current term, but a special election will determine who holds the seat for the next six years.

Her decision transforms what many expected to be a temporary appointment into a competitive Republican primary. Several high-profile Republicans, including Reps. Ralph Norman and Russell Fry, have already entered the race, while other potential candidates continue weighing bids.

Graham said her years working in public service and observing her brother’s career prepared her for the responsibility of serving in the Senate. She said she intends to fight for conservative values and represent South Carolina with the same dedication that defined her brother’s decades in Washington.

The Republican filing period opens this week ahead of the August 11 primary election. With President Trump’s endorsement and strong name recognition, Graham immediately becomes one of the leading contenders in the race to permanently fill the Senate seat.