Lindsey Graham's Longtime Republican-Held Senate Seat at Risk
Summary
The South Carolina Senate race, a seat held by Republicans for a long time, has become more competitive as recent polls show a close contest between Republican Darline Graham and Democrat Annie Andrews. Ratings from political forecasters now call the race "Likely Republican" instead of "Safe," reflecting uncertainty ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.Key Facts
- South Carolina has traditionally been a strong Republican state, backing President Trump by 18 points in 2024.
- Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican, served South Carolina for over 20 years before his death in July.
- Darline Graham was appointed to fill her late brother Lindsey Graham’s Senate seat and won a quick primary with President Trump’s endorsement.
- The Senate Leadership Fund, a pro-GOP political group, is spending $5 million to support Darline Graham in the race.
- Recent polls show Darline Graham with a narrow lead over Annie Andrews, a Democrat and pediatrician who ran for Congress in 2022.
- Trump’s low approval ratings have encouraged Democrats to try winning in traditionally Republican states like South Carolina.
- Sabato’s Crystal Ball and The Cook Political Report classify the race as "Likely Republican," indicating it is competitive but leaning Republican.
- Both President Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune are expected to campaign in South Carolina soon.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
