Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) expressed confidence Sunday in Sen. Darline Graham’s (R-SC) ability to win a Republican primary runoff election this Tuesday. Graham is facing a challenge from Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) for the Republican nomination to fill the Senate seat formerly held by her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC).
The runoff was triggered after the primary election earlier this month failed to produce a winner with a majority of the vote. Former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford, who finished fourth in that primary with 14.9 percent of the vote, announced Friday he is endorsing Norman. Sanford cited Norman’s approach to government spending as a primary reason for his support, stating that he believes the nation is at a "financial tipping point."
During an appearance on "Meet the Press," Scott defended Graham’s qualifications following a debate earlier last week where she stated she was "not that informed on national security" when asked about Taiwan and the South China Sea. Scott described Graham as "ready for prime time," noting her work on a Russia sanctions bill and her participation in votes for the attorney general during her first 30 days in the Senate.
President Donald Trump also defended Graham on Friday, stating she was being "honest" and "smart" in her focus on grocery prices. Trump, who appointed Graham to the seat, traveled to Myrtle Beach to rally with her on Friday. Rep. Norman, however, emphasized his own nine years of experience in Congress, stating that he is the only candidate in the race with the "experience and the resume" required for the office.
The race serves as a test of political influence within the state, as voters weigh competing endorsements. One side features the support of President Donald Trump and the state's senior senator, Tim Scott, while the other features Rep. Ralph Norman, supported by former Governor Mark Sanford. For South Carolina residents, the choice centers on whether they prefer a candidate who emphasizes domestic economic issues like grocery prices or a candidate who highlights legislative experience and a focus on federal spending.
The contest also highlights internal Republican party dynamics regarding foreign policy and national security expertise. Graham’s acknowledgment that she is "not that informed" on specific international security issues has become a focal point of the campaign's final days. The decision made by voters this week will set the precedent for how South Carolina Republicans prioritize legislative experience versus political appointment in special election cycles. Following Tuesday's vote, the focus will shift to the general election scheduled for November.