Lindsey Graham's Sister Backed by Trump as Washington Experience Questioned

Published Jul 17, 2026, 8:53 PM EDT

The president urged newly appointed Sen. Darline Graham to seek a full term despite her limited elected and legislative experience.

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Published Jul 17, 2026, 8:53 PM EDT

President Donald Trump is urging newly appointed South Carolina Sen. Darline Graham to seek a full six-year term, providing a pivotal endorsement and giving Lindsey Graham’s sister an immediate advantage in the Republican contest to replace him. Trump said July 17 in a Truth Social post that he discussed the race with Graham at the White House and would give her his “Complete and Total Endorsement” if she enters the special primary. Graham had not formally announced her candidacy as of Friday. Trump’s endorsement perhaps altered the temporary appointment from a short transition into a possible full-term path. He described Graham as a lifelong winner and ended his post with “RUN, DARLINE, RUN!”