Rep. Ralph Norman has entered the race to succeed Lindsey Graham in the U.S. Senate, adding a prominent South Carolina Republican to a rapidly forming special-election contest. Norman announced his candidacy Saturday after Graham’s death opened the seat.
The contest will determine the Republican nominee ahead of a general election in November, with a special primary scheduled for next month. The winner will compete for the remainder of Graham’s term, which ends in January.
Norman frames campaign around America First agenda
In a news release, Norman cast his campaign as an effort to advance President Donald Trump’s priorities in the Senate. “For years, Senator Lindsey Graham fought hard to save America and defend South Carolina. Now, President Trump needs another proven America First conservative in the US Senate to deliver on those America First priorities,” Norman said.
Graham died last Saturday from a tear in his artery, according to preliminary findings from a medical examiner. CNN reported that South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Graham’s younger sister, Darline Graham, to serve the balance of the term.
Key dates in the Senate contest
| Election step | Timing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| GOP filing period opens | July 21 | Candidates can begin filing for the special primary |
| GOP filing period closes | July 28 | Deadline to enter the special primary |
| Special primary | Next month | Republicans choose their nominee for November |
| General election | November | Voters choose who will serve the remainder of the term |
Trump backs a possible Graham candidacy
Trump on Friday urged Darline Graham to run in the Republican special primary and pledged his endorsement. She has not announced whether she will enter the race.
Other Republicans floated as possible candidates include Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and Rep. Nancy Mace. Both lost in the state’s GOP gubernatorial primary this year.
Norman’s announcement places him among the first confirmed contenders as the filing window approaches. The compressed calendar leaves South Carolina Republicans little time to settle the field before the special primary.
