Overview
- Darline Graham Nordone was officially sworn in this week to fill the Senate seat left vacant by her brother Lindsey Graham’s death.
- President Trump publicly recommended Nordone on Truth Social and Governor Henry McMaster moved to appoint her as the interim senator.
- Broad criticism from commentators focused on the appointment as nepotistic, with several noting Nordone’s career as a certified optician and lack of prior elected office.
- Supporters have framed the pick as a tribute to the late senator and a way to preserve Republican control until voters decide the next senator.
- Under South Carolina practice the governor’s appointee serves only until the next election, meaning Nordone will likely face a contested midterm race that will test party unity and voter reaction to the appointment.