Republican representative Ralph Norman has announced his candidacy for the US Senate seat in South Carolina, left vacant by the late senator Lindsey Graham. Norman's decision to run comes despite Donald Trump's backing of Graham's sister, Darline, who has expressed interest in running for the position. Norman, a lifelong resident of Rock Hill and a prominent member of the House freedom caucus, has emphasized his commitment to passing Trump's SAVE America Act and eliminating the filibuster.
In an announcement made on social media, Norman stated that he is running to represent the people of South Carolina in the US Senate because 'we need a fighter who will stand with President Trump and carry on Lindsey Graham's legacy.' He also pointed to his experience in the state house and Congress, where he has spent years fighting for the Palmetto State. Norman's campaign is likely to be fiercely contested, with several other candidates also vying for the seat.
Among those opposing Norman is Darline Graham, who has been endorsed by Trump. She has reportedly expressed an interest in running for the full six-year Senate term, but has yet to officially announce her campaign. Other candidates in the running for the seat include businessman Mark Lynch and lawyer Duke Buckner. The special GOP primary is scheduled for 11 August, with a run-off held on 25 August if necessary.
The winner of the GOP nomination will face off against Democrat Annie Andrews in the November midterms. Norman's entry into the race is likely to be seen as a challenge to Trump's influence in South Carolina, where the president has significant support. The outcome of the election will have significant implications for the balance of power in the US Senate.