Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) said the late Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) was a “force to be reckoned with” during a recent interview on Fox News Live.
The tribute comes as South Carolina political circles weigh the vacuum left by Graham's unexpected death and the potential for a high-profile succession battle.
Mace spoke on the impact Graham had on both state and national politics, specifically highlighting his military service and his influence within Senate leadership [1]. She also noted the significance of Graham's relationship with former President Donald Trump [1].
While honoring the late senator, Mace addressed questions regarding her own political future. Reports on her intent vary. According to the Washington Post, Mace said she is "strongly considering a bid for the late Senator Graham’s seat" [3]. However, other reports via CNN indicate she has not yet reached a final conclusion, stating, "There will be time to decide" [2].
This potential candidacy follows a challenging primary season for the congresswoman. Mace finished fifth [4], or last [5], in the South Carolina GOP gubernatorial primary held in June.
Despite the contradictory reports on whether she is merely teasing a run or formally considering one, Mace's comments signal she is closely monitoring the vacancy [3]. She continues to reflect on Graham's legacy as a pillar of the state's Republican establishment [1].
“Lindsey Graham was a 'force to be reckoned with.'”
The vacancy of a long-held Senate seat often triggers a scramble among ambitious state legislators and representatives. Mace's public praise for Graham serves as a traditional bridge to the senator's constituency, while her conflicting statements about a candidacy suggest she is testing the political waters following her poor performance in the June gubernatorial primary.
