South Carolina Republicans will participate in a special primary election on Tuesday to determine their nominee for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Senator Lindsey Graham’s death in July. Graham, who served in the Senate for 23 years and was known for his strong advocacy for military intervention abroad, passed away from cardiovascular disease on July 11, just weeks after winning the June Republican primary.
The special election features a competitive field of ten candidates seeking the Republican nomination. Notable contenders include Darline Graham, the late senator’s sister who was appointed to temporarily fill the seat and currently leads in polling with over 30 percent support. Other prominent candidates are U.S. Representatives Russell Fry and Ralph Norman, former Governor Mark Sanford, and businessman Mark Lynch, who finished second in the original June primary.
While Republicans maintain an advantage in the traditionally conservative state, Graham’s unexpected passing has somewhat improved Democratic prospects. The Democratic nominee, pediatrician Annie Andrews, has proven an effective fundraiser and has criticized Republican leadership on healthcare issues, including a measles outbreak. Despite the shift in dynamics, Republicans are still favored to retain the seat in November’s general election.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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