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Trump Endorses First Female SC Senator's Full-Term Run

7/21/2026

29 7 Full Breakdown

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Darline Graham Runs

U.S. Senator Darline Graham announced she will run for a full six-year term to succeed her late brother, Senator Lindsey Graham, in South Carolina.
Intense pressure forces her to decide quickly amid a compressed campaign timeline and concerns about an establishment-driven candidacy.
Her swearing-in made her South Carolina’s first female U.S. senator.
President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that he fully endorses Graham’s candidacy.

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Graham Seeks Term

U.S. Senator Darline Graham announced she will run for a full six-year term to succeed her late brother, Senator Lindsey Graham, in South Carolina.
In a Sean Hannity interview, Graham said she feels “inner peace” about seeking the full term.
Governor Henry McMaster named Graham senator on July 14, 2026, to finish her brother’s term.
Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso and Senator Tom Cotton publicly endorsed Graham’s candidacy.

History

Historical Context

Margaret Chase Smith shattered a barrier in 1948, winning Maine’s Senate seat with 71% of the vote and becoming the first woman elected to a full term and to serve in both houses of Congress. That precedent paved the way for Darline Graham, appointed July 14 2026 after Senator Lindsey Graham’s death, becoming South Carolina’s first female senator and part of 27 women—11 Republicans— serving.

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Darline Graham Runs

U.S. Senator Darline Graham announced she will run for a full six-year term to succeed her late brother, Senator Lindsey Graham, in South Carolina.
Intense pressure forces her to decide quickly amid a compressed campaign timeline and concerns about an establishment-driven candidacy.
Her swearing-in made her South Carolina’s first female U.S. senator.
President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that he fully endorses Graham’s candidacy.

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