South Carolina governor appoints Lindsey Graham's sister as temporary senator

Published Jul 14, 02:48 PM UTC

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appointed Darline Graham Nordone, the younger sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, to serve the remainder of his term following his unexpected death. The appointment has the backing of President Donald Trump, who recommended her to the governor. Graham Nordone, who has not previously held elected office and has largely stayed out of the public eye, accepted the role, stating, 'Lindsey has always been there for me. Now I will be there for him.' Her appointment comes amid interest from several prominent South Carolina Republicans, including Representatives Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, all of whom lost the recent gubernatorial primary. Graham's death triggers a sprint primary election to fill the seat on the November ballot, and it remains unclear if Graham Nordone will run for the full term.