Story perspectives

South Carolina Sets Aug. 11 Primary to Replace Late Graham

7/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

South Carolina law sets a special Republican primary for Aug. 11, with filing July 21-28, to pick Graham’s replacement for the November ballot.
Graham’s death temporarily lowered the GOP Senate margin to 52 seats, prompting concerns about pending defense and filibuster reforms.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel lost one of its greatest friends in Graham.
Democratic nominee Annie Andrews praised Graham’s faith and urged bipartisanship.

History

Historical Context

Senator Ted Kennedy’s death on August 25 2009 created a Massachusetts Senate vacancy that, after a 2004 law forcing special elections, led Governor Deval Patrick to appoint Paul G. Kirk as interim senator. The Jan 19 2010 special election—won by Republican Scott Brown with 51.8% of the vote—ended the Democrats’ 60-vote filibuster-proof majority and shifted Senate control on upcoming health-care votes.

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Story summary

South Carolina law sets a special Republican primary for Aug. 11, with filing July 21-28, to pick Graham’s replacement for the November ballot.
Graham’s death temporarily lowered the GOP Senate margin to 52 seats, prompting concerns about pending defense and filibuster reforms.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel lost one of its greatest friends in Graham.
Democratic nominee Annie Andrews praised Graham’s faith and urged bipartisanship.

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