President Donald Trump urged Darline Graham to run for a full U.S. Senate term in South Carolina on Friday [1].
The endorsement comes as the Republican party seeks to maintain control of the seat following the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham. Because the seat is a critical component of the state's political landscape, Trump's public backing could influence other potential GOP candidates and consolidate party support around Graham.
Trump issued the call on July 17, 2026 [1], and said that Graham is the best candidate to continue her brother's legacy. He encouraged her to seek the full term to ensure the seat remains in Republican hands [2].
"Run, Darline, run," Trump said [1].
Trump said Graham is the ideal choice for the position, saying there is "nobody better" for the role [3]. The push for her candidacy follows the vacancy left by the late senator, a longtime ally of the president.
Reports regarding Graham's current status vary. Some sources indicate she has already been appointed to finish the current Senate term [4], while others suggest she is still weighing a run for the full term without a formal appointment [5].
Trump's strategy in South Carolina often involves leveraging personal loyalties and family legacies to secure victory in primary contests. By elevating Darline Graham, he is positioning a candidate with a recognizable name and a direct link to a respected political figure within the state.
“"Run, Darline, run"”
This endorsement signals Trump's intent to maintain a specific ideological continuity in South Carolina by utilizing the Graham family legacy. By urging Darline Graham to run, Trump is attempting to preempt a fractured primary and ensure the seat remains aligned with his political wing.
