Trump Endorses Darline Graham Nordone for U.S. Senate Seat After Late Brother's Appointment
President Trump publicly endorsed Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of late Senator Lindsey Graham, to run for a full Senate term in South Carolina after she was appointed to fill the vacant seat.
Trump's Endorsement
President Donald Trump pushed Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of late Sen. Lindsey Graham, to run for a full-term after replacing her late-brother, in a Friday TruthSocial post. Darline Graham indicated in a White House meeting Thursday that she's weighing a bid, CBS News confirmed. A day later, President Trump wrote on Truth Social: "RUN, DARLINE, RUN!"
Political Significance
The endorsement represents a significant development in South Carolina's political landscape, with Trump backing Graham Nordone's transition from an interim appointment to a full electoral term. Canada has long been a thorn in Trump's side, and Trump has saved some of his highest tariffs for America's northern neighbor. He has accused the country of unfair lumber trade and stealing US auto jobs. Graham Nordone's appointment and Trump's swift endorsement underscore the ex-senator's lingering influence over GOP politics in his home state.
Senate Dynamics
This endorsement is a shift from Trump's earlier stance during this week, when he had indicated he expected Graham's replacement to serve only on an interim basis. The move signals Trump's confidence in Nordone and his desire to secure South Carolina's seat for an ally in the upper chamber. The announcement comes as Republicans brace for potential electoral challenges in the 2026 midterm cycle.