Darline Graham Nordone, sister and confidant of the late Lindsey Graham, will complete his Senate term in Washington.
“It’s my honor to ask his little sister Darline Graham to finish his work for him now,” announced South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster on Monday, appointing Nordone after reflecting on Graham’s contributions.
Both President Donald Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune endorsed McMaster’s choice of Nordone to honor Graham.
Her interim appointment opens the field for candidates ahead of the August 11 primary, with several Republicans considering a run for the GOP Senate nomination.
“It is such a privilege to get to finish some of his important work, and I promise to work hard over the next several months to support the president and carry forward the efforts of my brother on behalf of the citizens of South Carolina and the United States,” Nordone stated at a press conference with McMaster. She noted that the decision aligns with what “Lindsey would have wanted.”
Raised by Graham after the early loss of their parents, Nordone shared a strong bond with her brother, often joining him on the campaign trail, including during his presidential campaign launch in 2015.
According to Trey Walker, McMaster’s top political adviser and former chief of staff, Nordone’s appointment materialized swiftly in just 36 hours.
McMaster learned of Graham’s passing at 11 p.m. Saturday, prior to the public announcement from the senator’s office, Walker informed POLITICO.
On Sunday morning, McMaster reached out to Nordone to offer condolences. As the day progressed and discussions unfolded, he contacted her again at 10 a.m. to propose: Would she consider completing her brother’s Senate term?
Nordone, who leads the state’s Commission for the Blind, is well-acquainted with McMaster and frequently interacts with the governor’s office, Walker explained.
With Nordone’s agreement, McMaster proceeded to consult the White House.
“How fitting a tribute to Lindsey would it be … to appoint Darline, his sister, to finish Lindsey’s work this time and to put that beautiful bookend on the story of his service?” Walker recounted McMaster’s reasoning to Trump. The president, whose approval is crucial in the conservative state, was “very receptive” to the proposal, Walker noted.
Trump later affirmed his support on Truth Social on Monday morning, calling her appointment a “fabulous tribute” to the senator.
Neither the White House nor McMaster’s office issued immediate comments.
Republicans in South Carolina anticipate Nordone will serve only as a caretaker for the remainder of Graham’s term. However, Nordone has not indicated her intentions regarding a potential run for a full six-year term.
The race for the August 11 primary is already underway in the predominantly Republican state, presenting a unique chance for emerging political figures.
Among potential contenders, Rep. Russell Fry (R-S.C.) is noted for his connections to Columbia and Trump’s administration. Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, who recently ran for governor, is also considered a strong candidate due to her wide recognition and campaign network.
Others, including Mace and Norman, have shown interest in pursuing Graham’s seat, though no official announcements have been made.
Trump, who could significantly influence Graham’s successor, has not yet expressed any preference for a candidate to fill the full term.
