Former Rep. Mark Sanford, R-S.C., on Thursday announced that he would seek the late Sen. Lindsey Graham's, R-S.C., Senate seat, joining a crowded field of candidates that already includes two sitting House members and Graham's sister.

Sanford lost reelection in 2018 and later mounted a primary challenge to President Donald Trump in 2020. He has positioned himself as a relatively traditional Republican, emphasizing national financial management in his campaign announcement.

"Our country is at a financial tipping point, and I can't sit on the sidelines while Washington adds a trillion dollars to the debt every 100 days,' he posted on X. "I've spent my entire time in politics fighting this fight, and I'm running for U.S. Senate to keep the American dream alive for our sons, my grandson, and those you love. Join us."

Sanford joins Sen. Darline Graham, Reps. Ralph Norman and Russell Fry; and former Graham primary challenger Mark Lynch in the special primary contest.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent for Just the News. Follow him on X.