Fry, Norman Challenge Trump-Backed Darline Graham in Aug. 11 Senate Race
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Jul 21
Fry, Norman Challenge Trump-Backed Darline Graham in Aug. 11 Senate Race
3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jul 21
Summary
Russell Fry entered South Carolina’s Aug. 11 special Senate election on Monday, joining Ralph Norman against Darline Graham just days after Trump endorsed her for Lindsey Graham’s seat.
Darline Graham, appointed last week to finish her late brother’s term, surprised many Republicans by seeking a full term despite expectations she would serve only until January.
A new GOP rule could complicate her bid: county Republicans asked the state party to review whether her voting record satisfies the requirement to have voted in two of the past three statewide GOP primaries.
Trump’s backing still gives Graham instant stature, but recent South Carolina setbacks — including Pam Evette’s loss despite his endorsement — have encouraged rivals who see the race as winnable.
The compressed calendar may shape the contest as much as ideology: filing closes July 28, memorial services fall on July 28-29, and a runoff would be held in late August if no candidate tops 50%.