Trump backs Lindsey Graham's sister in Senate special election
Axios · LC · trust 46/100
Add Axios on Google Darline Graham Nordone, sister of Lindsey Graham, is ceremonially sworn in as a US Senator by Senator Charles Grassley, Republican from Iowa, (out of frame) in the Old Senate Chamber at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on July 14, 2026.
President Trump has endorsed Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of late Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), in next month's special election to replace Graham as the GOP candidate on the November ballot.
Why it matters: Nordone has not publicly confirmed plans to run, but Trump's endorsement will vault her ahead of other GOP candidates vying to replace her late brother.
What they're saying: "I asked Darline, for the Good of our Nation, to run for the U.S. Senate in the Special Republican Primary on Tuesday, August 11, 2026," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social Friday.
The intrigue: Nordone, who had never held public office before her appointment by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster (R), indicated that she's exploring her options, Semafor first reported on Friday.
Zoom out: Candidates can file to run in the special election from July 21 to 28.
Yes, but: Trump's endorsement could put a damper on plans for any other candidates if Nordone decides to enter.
Editor's note: This story was updated with additional information throughout.
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