Graham Faces a High-Stakes 'America First' Challenge in South Carolina

Sen. Lindsey Graham is defending his South Carolina Senate seat against a well-funded primary bid from Mark Lynch, with more than $18 million spent by Graham and allied groups. Lynch positions Graham as “Washington-first” and hawkish on foreign policy, drawing support from some MAGA critics, while Trump remains publicly backing Graham. Polls show Graham hovering around the 50% mark in a crowded field, making a runoff possible depending on turnout. The race is a test of what “America First” means within the GOP base and the enduring influence of Trump’s endorsement.