Darline Graham Nordone was sworn in as a U.S. Senator on July 14, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to represent South Carolina in the Senate. She was administered the oath of office at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., by longtime Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley, who serves as the president pro tempore of the Senate. For her entrance into the Senate chambers, she was escorted by South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and Alabama Sen. Katie Britt.
The 64-year-old Nordone was appointed to the position by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster just one day prior to her swearing-in. She steps into the role following the unexpected death of her brother, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, who passed away on July 11 at the age of 71 due to a tear in his aorta, the body’s main artery. Her appointment was encouraged by President Donald Trump via a post on Truth Social.
Though Nordone has no prior political experience, having spent her professional career in workforce development and disability services, she expressed confidence in her ability to serve with the assistance of her brother’s staff and colleagues. She will hold the seat until January 3, 2027, at which point the victor of the upcoming November election will assume the role. Whether Nordone intends to run for the seat herself remains unclear.
Following her appointment, Nordone stated her commitment to continuing her brother's legacy, characterizing him as an exceptional leader. She expressed that it is a privilege to complete his work and pledged to support the president while carrying forward her brother's efforts for the citizens of South Carolina and the United States.
Her presence in the Senate provides a boost to the Republican majority, which currently holds a narrow margin. Before his passing, Lindsey Graham was campaigning for a fifth term in the Senate after winning the Republican primary last month against challengers including businessman Mark Lynch. He was slated to face Democratic nominee Annie Andrews, a pediatrician who previously ran for the seat held by Rep. Nancy Mace in 2022.
With the vacancy, South Carolina Republicans are now tasked with holding a special primary on August 11 to select a new nominee. Potential contenders mentioned for the seat include Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Russell Fry, former Rep. Trey Gowdy, and Rep. William Timmons.
