South Carolina Senator Darline Graham Unveils Trump-Endorsed Ad Campaign Ahead of Critical Senate Race

Thursday, 30 July 2026 11:47 AM EDT

Sen. Darline Graham, R-S.C., released her first television advertisement for the U.S. Senate campaign on Thursday, highlighting her endorsement from President Donald Trump and emphasizing conservative priorities as the race ramps up.

The 30-second spot, titled “Ready to Serve,” is backed by what the campaign described as a significant statewide cable and streaming advertising buy.

In the ad, the South Carolina Republican thanked supporters for their prayers following the death of her brother, the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, saying they “provided strength through an incredibly difficult time.”

She also highlighted Trump’s endorsement and pledged to earn the confidence of South Carolina voters.

“I’m honored to serve South Carolina and grateful for President Trump’s endorsement, and I’ll work hard every day to earn it,” Graham said.

The ad outlined several policy positions, with Graham stating she believes “every life is precious, men don’t belong in women’s sports, and only American citizens should vote in our elections.”

The spot concluded with Graham saying, “I’m Darline Graham. I approve this message, and I’m ready to serve.”

Graham faces a crowded field in the Aug. 11 special Republican primary, with 12 candidates filing to seek the nomination.

Her most prominent challengers include Reps. Ralph Norman and Russell Fry of South Carolina; former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford; and businessman Mark Lynch, who previously challenged Lindsey Graham.

If no candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote, the top two finishers will advance to an Aug. 25 runoff. The Republican nominee will face Charleston physician Annie Andrews, the Democratic Party nominee, in the November general election.

Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Graham to temporarily fill her brother’s seat following his death.

She became the first woman to represent South Carolina in the U.S. Senate and is now seeking a full six-year term.