Darline Graham Wins South Carolina Republican Senate Runoff With Trump’s Backing

KUALA LUMPUR, AUGUST 2026 — Senator Darline Graham has won the Republican nomination in South Carolina’s Senate runoff, strengthening her chances of securing a full term in the November election.

Graham defeated Rep. Ralph Norman after both candidates advanced from the August 11 Republican primary, where neither secured the majority required to win the nomination outright.

Her campaign received strong support from President Donald Trump, whose endorsement played a major role in boosting her profile among Republican voters. Graham also benefited from incumbency after being appointed by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to temporarily fill the Senate seat left vacant by her brother’s death.

Graham entered the race on July 20, making the campaign her first major electoral contest. Despite her limited political experience, she carried one of South Carolina’s most recognisable political names and received significant support from Trump-aligned groups.

The race became increasingly competitive during the final weeks. Graham faced criticism after saying during a televised debate that she was not well informed on national security when questioned about US policy toward Taiwan. The remark raised questions about her preparedness, particularly given Lindsey Graham’s long-standing focus on foreign policy and defence issues.

Norman, a 73-year-old conservative and vice chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, argued that voters should choose a candidate based on experience and political record rather than family name. He positioned himself as an established conservative alternative to Graham.

The runoff was also an expensive contest. Graham and Norman spent a combined more than US$5 million on campaign advertising, while the pro-Trump MAGA Inc. political group spent more than US$827,000 on calls and text messages supporting Graham in the final days of the race.

Graham will now face Democrat Annie Andrews in November. She is widely considered the favourite, as Democrats have not won a US Senate election in South Carolina since 1998. Her runoff victory also underlines Trump’s continued influence over Republican voters ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.