South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster on Monday appointed Darline Graham Nordone to serve the remainder of the Senate term held by her late brother, Lindsey Graham. Nordone, who has led South Carolina’s Commission for the Blind, accepted the appointment at a news conference with McMaster.
Nordone said it was a privilege to complete some of her brother’s work and pledged to support President Donald Trump and continue Graham’s efforts for South Carolina and the United States. McMaster said the selection was intended as a tribute to the late senator. Graham had helped raise Nordone after their parents died during her childhood, and the siblings remained close.
Trump publicly backed the idea of appointing Nordone, calling it a fitting tribute, while Senate Majority Leader John Thune also expressed support, according to Politico. McMaster’s political adviser, Trey Walker, said the governor discussed the prospect with Nordone and then contacted the White House as the decision took shape over roughly 36 hours.
The interim appointment opens a contest for the Republican nomination ahead of an Aug. 11 primary for a full Senate term. Politico reported that Rep. Russell Fry, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Rep. Nancy Mace and Rep. Ralph Norman were among Republicans being discussed as possible contenders, though no formal candidacies had been announced. Nordone had not indicated whether she would seek the full term herself.
