Ten to 12 Republican candidates are competing in a special primary election to replace the late U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham [1, 2].
The outcome of this primary will determine which Republican appears on the general-election ballot to fill the vacant seat in South Carolina. Because the state is a Republican stronghold, the primary winner is widely viewed as the frontrunner for the seat.
The special primary is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026 [2]. The field of candidates includes a former governor and two U.S. congressmen [1].
Reports on the exact number of candidates vary. Some sources said that 10 Republicans will compete in the election [1]. Other reports said that 12 hopefuls filed the necessary paperwork by the filing deadline [2].
The vacancy was created following the death of Sen. Graham. The special election process ensures that the seat is filled through a democratic vote rather than a gubernatorial appointment.
Candidates have spent recent weeks campaigning across the state to secure the nomination. The primary serves as the first major hurdle for those seeking to represent South Carolina in the U.S. Senate.
“Ten to 12 Republican candidates are competing in a special primary election to replace the late U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham.”
This special primary is critical because it determines the GOP's direction in a key Southern state. With a crowded field of 10 to 12 candidates, the result will signal whether the South Carolina Republican base prefers established congressional leadership or executive experience from a former governor to fill the void left by Graham.
