Story perspectives

Darline Graham Becomes South Carolina’s First Female Senator

7/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Darline Graham, an advocate for the blind and disabled, was sworn in as South Carolina’s first female U.S. senator.
Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham under state law to serve until January 2027, citing her brother’s care.
U.S. President Donald Trump praised the appointment as a tribute to the late Senator Lindsey Graham.
A special Republican primary on August 11 will select a nominee to face Democrat Annie Andrews in November.

History

Historical Context

The 1992 Senate elections, held November 3, during the same cycle that elected President Bill Clinton, brought four Democratic women—Dianne Feinstein, Barbara Boxer, Patty Murray and Carol Moseley Braun—into office, making California the first state with two women senators and prompting the press to label the year the “Year of the Woman.” Governor Henry McMaster’s 2024 appointment of disability advocate Darline Graham as South Carolina’s first female U.S. senator echoes that breakthrough.

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Story summary

Darline Graham, an advocate for the blind and disabled, was sworn in as South Carolina’s first female U.S. senator.
Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham under state law to serve until January 2027, citing her brother’s care.
U.S. President Donald Trump praised the appointment as a tribute to the late Senator Lindsey Graham.
A special Republican primary on August 11 will select a nominee to face Democrat Annie Andrews in November.

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