South Carolina girds for post-Graham leadership shift as replacement hunt begins

After Sen. Lindsey Graham’s death, Gov. Henry McMaster must appoint a temporary successor until January, while a special Republican primary for a permanent seat is set for Aug. 11 with filings opening July 21. Potential contenders include Rep. Nancy Mace and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, among others; Rep. Joe Wilson said he won’t run. Trump hinted at a preferred replacement but wouldn’t name them, and Sen. Tim Scott offered only that he has no insight into McMaster’s choice, as the party weighs interim appointments and the open primary.