Darline Graham Steps Into Senate to Finish Brother Lindsey Graham's Term

Darline Graham Nordone, who will go by Darline Graham in the Senate, was sworn in on July 14, 2026 to fill the late Sen. Lindsey Graham's seat after Governor Henry McMaster appointed her. The move marks the first time a sibling has replaced a deceased senator. Although she has no prior elected-office experience, she is expected to vote with the Republican majority as Republicans prepare a special primary to nominate a candidate for a full six-year term; potential contenders include Ralph Norman, Pamela Evette, and Nancy Mace, with it unclear whether Darline herself will run. President Trump and Sen. Tim Scott lauded the appointment.