Republican Rep. Ralph Norman joins Senate race to succeed Lindsey Graham in South Carolina

Republican Representative Ralph Norman of South Carolina has announced he will join the race to succeed the late Senator Lindsey Graham, despite Donald Trump backing Graham’s sister, Darline, should she choose to run.

Announcing the launch of his bid on Saturday, Norman wrote on X that he is running to represent the people of South Carolina in the Senate and carry on Lindsey Graham’s legacy. He emphasized his focus on passing the SAVE America Act and eliminating the filibuster to advance Trump's "America First" agenda.

Norman told CNN he had sought Trump's support but did not receive it. However, he said the president's decision to endorse Darline did not deter him from entering the race, adding that he is in it to win.

Darline Graham, 62, was appointed on an interim basis to fill her late brother's Senate seat on Tuesday, just three days after his death, at Trump's direction. This marked the first time a sibling has replaced a senator who died in office, and the first woman to represent South Carolina in the Senate.

Lindsey Graham died on July 11 at age 71 from aortic dissection due to cardiovascular disease. His sudden death sparked a scramble of Republicans angling for the seat he had held since 2003.

Norman is backed by Florida Senator Rick Scott and Utah Senator Mike Lee. In addition to Norman and Darline Graham (who has yet to officially announce a campaign), businessman Mark Lynch and lawyer Duke Buckner have also entered the race. Republican Representative Nancy Mace is also eyeing a potential bid.

Norman, 73, is a prominent member of the House Freedom Caucus. He ran unsuccessfully for governor of South Carolina earlier this year and did not back Trump in the 2024 election.

A special GOP primary is set for August 11, with a runoff on August 25 if needed. The winner will face Democrat Annie Andrews in the November midterm elections.