Here's who could replace Lindsey Graham

Graham died unexpectedly at the age of 71 over the weekend, sparking a rapid race to replace him, with would-be senators declaring their interest in the post.

Published: July 13, 2026 12:05pm

With Gov. Henry McMaster, R-S.C., set to announce a replacement for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., on Monday afternoon, speculation has abounded as to whom he may select.

Graham died unexpectedly at the age of 71 over the weekend, sparking a rapid race to replace him, with would-be senators declaring their interest in the post.

Here are some of the major contenders:

Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette

Evette placed second in the party's gubernatorial primary, losing out to state Attorney General Alan Wilson. Evette had secured Trump's endorsement in the first round, but Wilson took a commanding lead, prompting President Donald Trump to issue a co-endorsement of Wilson.

Darline Graham Nordone

Trump himself announced Monday that he had urged McMaster to choose Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone, saying it would be a "fabulous tribute to Lindsay."

Rep. Ralph Norman

The conservative member of the House placed third in the gubernatorial primary and has since declared his interest in seeking the seat for a full term. House leadership appears concerned, however, that appointing a member of the lower chamber could hurt the House majority.

Rep. Nancy Mace

Mace placed last in the gubernatorial primary and has indicated her own interest in the post. Much of the same concerns over affecting the House majority apply to Mace as well.

Nikki Haley

The former South Carolina governor earned the ire of MAGA by running against Trump in 2024, but she retains a following in the Palmetto State and has generated some attention amid the selection process.

Trey Gowdy

The former South Carolina congressman has been a prominent figure in conservative media for years and has attracted some speculation on social media that he could fill the post.

Scott Bessent

The Treasury secretary is a South Carolina native and has also generated speculation for the post and reportedly fielded calls to run for the seat.

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

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