The Graham Seat Special Election will take place on Aug. 11 to decide who will appear on the ballot in November — and several candidates are already vying for the historic seat.
The 3 top names in polling for the Graham Seat Special election include: Russell Fry, Darline Graham, and Ralph Norman.
With Mandy Matney announcing this week that she is leaving the state to consider locations like Chicago, Illinois, Brian Sweeney is among the top podcasters left standing in our area, especially Horry County.
Last Spring, after attending a Lindsey Graham event, Brian reached out to multiple locals stating he had concerns that Lindsey would not live out the year. At MyrtleBeachSC News, we made little of it at the time.
I personally approached Brian asking why he would make such a predication? Brian stated, “Quite honestly, he just doesn’t look healthy.” It was only after the shock of Lindsey’s sudden passing that I was reminded of Brian’s remarks.
This week, Brian Sweeney provided his insight into the Graham Seat Special election in which low voter turnout and high campaign donor investments are expected.
In his video below, he makes it clear that this is his opinion only, and not a facts based assessment.
First off, Russell Fry is sure to win Horry County. He is also expected to do well in Georgetown County. Everyone state-wide agrees on this.
However, Russell was elected specifically because of Donald Trump’s endorsement. He does not have that endorsement this run. Fry is choosing to simultaneously run for the open Graham seat and his 7th District Congressional seat in the same election cycle.
Insights on the Upcoming Graham Seat Special Election
Sweeney does not believe Fry can make a runoff which is a likely outcome with so many candidates in the race.
Sweeney predicts Ralph Norman and Darline Graham Nordone will make the runoff.
Key question, who will Fry endorse? Sweeney believes it will be Graham-Nordone.
Sweeney also believes the contest between Norman and Graham-Nordone will be too close to call at this time.
The U.S. Senate special Republican primary election will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 11.
Voters who meet the eligibility criteria will play a role in reducing the number of candidates before the general midterm election scheduled for November 3, 2026. The Republican candidate will compete against Annie Andrews, the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate.
Individuals who participated in the June Democratic primary are ineligible to vote in the special election.
Early voting for the Graham Seat Special Election begins on Wednesday, August 5, and concludes on Friday, August 7. Voting centers will be available from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
