South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Darline Graham Nordone, Lindsey Graham’s sister, to finish his Senate term through Jan. 3, 2027, with a special election next month to determine the Republican candidate for the seat. Nordone’s selection follows Lindsey Graham’s death while he was seeking re-election; Trump also endorsed the choice, calling it a fitting tribute. Nordone, who has not held public office, has long been close to her brother and has appeared with him in campaigns, and she previously worked helping people with disabilities find jobs. The political contest now centers on potential successors like Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, among others weighing bids as the GOP seeks a path to November’s open-seat election.
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Nordone will serve the remainder of Graham's term until January 3, 2027, unless she runs in and wins the open seat in November.
Governor McMaster said the appointment was his duty and honor and framed it as finishing the work of an extraordinary man, Lindsey Graham.
Former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Nordone, calling the appointment a fabulous tribute to Lindsey.
Lindsey Graham considered Nordone his closest family member after their parents died within 15 months in the 1970s, and he adopted her so she could access his military benefits.
Nordone has never held public office and previously worked to help people with disabilities find jobs; she is also the mother of two.
South Carolina lawmakers are watching whether Reps. Nancy Mace or Ralph Norman will run for Graham’s seat, with Norman possibly announcing soon, while others have hinted they will not run.
The article notes that the story has been updated as new information became available.