Trump’s Campaign Rally for Darline Graham in South Carolina

On August 21, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump was joined by Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) and Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) at a campaign rally in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. They gathered in support of Republican Senate candidate Darline Graham. The rally preceded Tuesday’s runoff election where Graham will face Ralph Norman.

Republican voters in South Carolina will soon decide who replaces the late Senator Lindsey Graham on the general election ballot. His death on July 11 initiated a scramble to fill his seat. Darline Graham, appointed by GOP Governor Henry McMaster, is running against Congressman Norman in a runoff election.

“I’m doing this to honor Lindsey. That’s why I’m here,” Trump stated at the rally.

Trump’s investment in this race is notable. His super PAC, MAGA Inc., has contributed over $827,000 in support of Graham. Despite these efforts, Trump has faced several primary defeats this cycle, including in South Carolina during the gubernatorial primary.

The abbreviated primary campaign saw Graham with 33% of the vote, while Norman secured about 25%. Graham, lacking political experience, benefits from her brother’s legacy and well-regarded campaign network. Despite this, GOP voters remain hesitant about Trump-backed candidates.

Rep. Ralph Norman, competing against Graham, emphasizes his political experience. He previously ran for governor and has been a five-term Congressman. Norman appeals to Trump skeptics by supporting Nikki Haley for the 2024 presidential bid. He highlights the excitement and support from voters.

Graham uses her outsider status to her advantage, asserting her non-political background as a plus. She argues that President Trump’s success, despite his lack of elected experience, underscores her own potential.

Whoever wins the runoff will face Democratic nominee Annie Andrews in November. The seat is generally perceived as a safe Republican hold.

South Carolina Public Radio’s Luis-Alfredo Garcia contributed to this report.