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Trump-Endorsed Darline Graham Leads SC GOP Primary Poll

8/10/2026

30 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Darline Graham appears on the South Carolina Republican primary ballot for Aug. 11, 2026.
President Donald Trump endorsed Graham, calling her a “spectacular person” and urging her to run.
A poll Aug. 5-6 shows Graham at 30.4 % support, ahead of Rep. Norman (17.5 %) and Rep. Fry (16.6 %).
If no candidate reaches 50 %, a runoff on Aug. 25, 2026 will decide the nominee.
Analysts say the race tests Trump’s influence in the South Carolina GOP.

History

Historical Context

Since Barry Goldwater’s 1964 win, South Carolina has been a Republican stronghold, with the GOP primary serving as a decisive “firewall” since its 1980 inception. In February 2016, Donald Trump won the state’s Republican primary with 32.5% of the vote, securing all 50 delegates. Today, Darline Graham’s 30.4% poll lead, backed by Trump’s endorsement, echoes that 2016 momentum as she seeks the GOP nomination.

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Story summary

Darline Graham appears on the South Carolina Republican primary ballot for Aug. 11, 2026.
President Donald Trump endorsed Graham, calling her a “spectacular person” and urging her to run.
A poll Aug. 5-6 shows Graham at 30.4 % support, ahead of Rep. Norman (17.5 %) and Rep. Fry (16.6 %).
If no candidate reaches 50 %, a runoff on Aug. 25, 2026 will decide the nominee.
Analysts say the race tests Trump’s influence in the South Carolina GOP.

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