President Donald Trump made a late switch in South Carolina’s Senate race, reversing his initial endorsement of a little-known congressman to back Darline Graham, the sister of Senator Lindsey Graham.
The decision came after private conversations with Governor Henry McMaster and a direct appeal from Darline Graham herself. Trump had previously pledged support for Representative Ralph Norman, a conservative loyalist with low statewide name recognition.
Friends of the president described his shift as emotional, rooted in grief and loyalty following Senator Graham’s death earlier this year. Trump told allies he wanted to honor Lindsey Graham’s legacy by supporting his family.
Darline Graham, a businesswoman with no prior political experience, has cast herself as a political outsider aligned with Trump’s agenda. Her campaign has gained rapid traction among Republican donors and grassroots activists.
Governor McMaster, a close Trump ally, played a pivotal role in facilitating the endorsement change. He reportedly presented polling data showing Graham leading in early primary matchups.
Trump’s decision has sparked criticism from some conservatives who view the move as nepotism. Others see it as a strategic play to unify the party during a contentious primary season.
The endorsement reshapes the race, elevating Darline Graham from a long-shot candidate to a front-runner. Her campaign is now expected to attract significant national funding and media attention.
Norman, previously the presumed nominee, has indicated he will remain in the race. His campaign called the president’s reversal a betrayal of a prior commitment.
The primary is scheduled for June 2026, with the winner favored in the heavily Republican state. Darline Graham’s sudden rise underscores Trump’s enduring influence over GOP primary dynamics.
