Darline Graham Nordone has been officially sworn in as the interim U.S. Senator from South Carolina, filling the vacancy left by her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham. On July 17, 2026, former President Donald Trump publicly urged Nordone to run in the upcoming special Republican primary scheduled for Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

Trump expressed strong support for Nordone in a post on Truth Social, describing her as "a spectacular person, and a true American Patriot." He praised Lindsey Graham as "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known," and noted that Nordone shares her brother's deep love for the country and South Carolina.

Trump further stated that Nordone "comes from an absolutely incredible family," has "been a WINNER all of her life," and if she accepts the challenge, she has his "Complete and Total Endorsement."

The endorsement followed Nordone's appointment by South Carolina's governor to complete her brother's term. Tim Scott, R-S.C., also spoke at a news conference announcing her appointment. Nordone held a news conference outside the South Carolina State House in Columbia shortly after being sworn in.

Trump emphasized the importance of Nordone running for the Senate seat, 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. I hope Darline does this, in that there would be nobody better to honor the legacy of her beloved brother, Lindsey."

Sources

Darline Graham Nordone speaks during a news conference outside the governor's South Carolina State House office, Monday, in Columbia, S.C.
Photo Credit: Grant Baldwin/Getty Images

Lindsey Graham hugs his sister Darline Graham Nordone after announcing his presidential candidacy in 2015.
Photo Credit: Jessica McGowan/Getty Images, File