Trump's Backing Faces Key Test in South Carolina Senate Runoff

South Carolina Republicans head to the polls Tuesday to choose a nominee for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham's seat, with President Trump endorsing Graham's sister, Darline Graham, against Rep. Ralph Norman. The runoff will gauge Trump's political influence after several of his primary picks lost this cycle, and it also highlights a divide over foreign policy experience. Darline Graham has acknowledged limited national security knowledge, while Norman emphasizes his House record on international affairs.

The runoff marks the fourth time South Carolina Republicans have cast ballots since June's initial primary round, prompting some local election officials to worry that voter fatigue could suppress turnout. Darline Graham, who previously led the state's commission for the blind, has never held elective office and entered the race just days after her brother's death at Trump's urging.

Norman, a House member since 2017, finished third in the June gubernatorial primary before pivoting to this Senate contest. His campaign has seized on Graham's debate admission about limited national security knowledge, contrasting her stance with her late brother's well-known defense hawk reputation. The winner will face Democrat Annie Andrews in November.