President Trump has endorsed Darline Graham Nordone, sister of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), in next month’s special Republican primary — even though she hasn’t said she’s running.

Why it matters: Trump’s backing instantly vaults an undeclared candidate ahead of the Republicans already campaigning for her brother’s seat. This includes Russell Fry who was predicted to get the Trump endorsement.

Darline Graham Nordone: A New Era for South Carolina

• Darline Graham Nordone was sworn in this week to serve out the remainder of Graham’s term, which ends Jan. 3, 2027.
• The winner of November’s election will hold the seat until January 2033.

What Trump Said: “I asked Darline, for the Good of our Nation, to run for the U.S. Senate in the Special Republican Primary on Tuesday, August 11, 2026,” Trump wrote on Truth Social Friday.

• He added that “there would be nobody better to honor the legacy of her beloved brother,” and that Nordone, should she accept, has his “Complete and Total Endorsement.”
• “RUN, DARLINE, RUN!”