South Carolina votes on Darline Graham Nordone as GOP Senate nominee

https://time.com/article/2026/07/13/darline-nordone-lindsey-graham-sister-south-carolina-senate-trump-mcmaster/

Voters in South Carolina are casting their ballots today to determine whether Darline Graham Nordone will succeed her late brother, Senator Lindsey Graham, as the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate. Following Lindsey Graham’s death last month, the special primary has gained significant attention, with Darline Graham Nordone’s candidacy attracting interest due to her familial ties. The market for the primary shows a significant preference for Graham Nordone, with current odds reflecting a 72% likelihood of her securing the nomination. This represents an increase from 60% just 24 hours ago, suggesting growing confidence in her prospects.

The primary is set to determine the Republican candidate for the upcoming Senate election in November, with several other contenders in the race, including Ralph Norman and Russell Fry. Market pricing indicates a lower probability for these candidates, with Ralph Norman at 21% and Russell Fry at just 2%. The movements suggest that Darline Graham Nordone’s candidacy appears to be benefiting from her association with the Graham name and recent endorsements.

With the polls opening, the decision now lies with South Carolina voters as they determine who will represent the GOP in the Senate race this November. The outcome of this primary could have significant implications for the Republican party’s strategy moving forward.

Key Takeaways

• Market pricing suggests a strong likelihood of Darline Graham Nordone winning the primary, with current odds at 72% YES.
• Observed market shifts over the past 24 hours indicate increased confidence in Graham Nordone’s candidacy.
• Other candidates, including Ralph Norman and Russell Fry, show significantly lower probabilities of winning.

What to Watch

The results of the special primary will be critical in shaping the Republican ticket for the upcoming Senate election. Observers should monitor final voter turnout and any last-minute endorsements that could influence the outcome. Additionally, the response from key political figures and their impact on voter sentiment will be crucial in understanding the broader electoral landscape in South Carolina. The results will likely be indicative of the party’s direction following Lindsey Graham’s tenure.

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