U.S. Congressman Ralph Norman Enters South Carolina Senate Race After Lindsey Graham’s Death

WASHINGTON: U.S. Representative Ralph Norman, a Republican from South Carolina, has announced that he will run for the U.S. Senate seat left vacant following the death of longtime Senator Lindsey Graham, setting up a closely watched Republican primary in one of the country’s most conservative states.

Norman made the announcement during an appearance on Fox News, pledging to support President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda if elected. He said the United States is at a critical moment and requires steadfast conservative leadership in the Senate to advance key Republican priorities.

The Senate seat is currently being held on an interim basis by Darline Graham, the late senator’s sister, who was appointed by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster following Lindsey Graham’s death. President Trump has publicly encouraged Darline Graham to enter the Republican primary, although she has not yet confirmed whether she will seek a full term.

Norman, 73, has represented South Carolina’s 5th Congressional District since 2017 and previously served for more than a decade in the South Carolina House of Representatives. A former real estate developer, he is a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus and is known for advocating limited government, reduced federal spending and fiscally conservative policies.

The Republican field also includes businessman Mark Lynch and attorney Duke Buckner, while additional candidates could still enter the race when the official filing period opens next week. The Republican primary is scheduled for August 11, with the winner advancing to the November general election.