Donald Trump has endorsed Darline Graham for a full six-year term in the US Senate, following the sudden death of her brother, Lindsey Graham. The former president made the announcement on Truth Social, urging her to run in the special Republican primary to represent South Carolina.
Trump's Endorsement and Call to Action
In his post, Trump wrote: "I asked Darline, for the Good of our Nation, to run for the U.S. Senate in the Special Republican Primary." He added that there would be "nobody better to honor the legacy of her beloved brother, Lindsey." The president concluded with a rallying cry: "RUN, DARLINE, RUN!"
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Who Is Darline Graham?
Darline Graham was a commissioner at the South Carolina commission for the blind before her appointment to the Senate by Governor Henry McMaster. She had never held elected office but had joined her brother at campaign events. Her appointment came after Lindsey Graham died at age 71 from an aortic dissection, as determined by the District of Columbia medical examiner.
| Key Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Lindsey Graham's death | Last Saturday | Aortic dissection at age 71 |
| Darline Graham sworn in | Earlier this week | Appointed by Governor McMaster |
| Trump endorsement | Friday | Urged her to run for full term |
| Funeral services | 28-29 July | Washington D.C. and South Carolina |
Political Implications for South Carolina
Lindsey Graham had served in the Senate since 2003 and won his primary last month for a fifth term. His death leaves a vacancy in deep-red South Carolina, prompting a special primary. Trump's endorsement could significantly influence the race, given his strong support among Republican voters.
Graham's Legacy and Relationship with Trump
Graham was a foreign policy hawk and prolific negotiator. He criticized Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign but later became one of his closest allies in the Senate. His bipartisan efforts included talks that led to breakthroughs and others that ended in deadlock.
- Trump's endorsement adds momentum to Darline Graham's potential campaign.
- She faces a special primary to secure the seat for a full term.
- Her background includes work with the blind and campaign experience with her brother.
- Funeral plans include services in Washington and South Carolina.