South Carolina Rep. Ralph Norman jumped into the race to replace the late Sen. Lindsey Graham on Saturday, defying the presidential endorsement that landed behind Graham's sister just a day earlier.
Norman announced his candidacy on Fox News, vowing to prioritize what he calls Trump's America First agenda. He specifically cited support for the SAVE America Act and eliminating the Senate filibuster as immediate priorities if elected.
The timing put Norman at odds with Trump, who on Friday had issued his "complete and total endorsement" of Darline Graham. The senator's sister was appointed to fill the remainder of Lindsey Graham's term after GOP Gov. Henry McMaster selected her just days following the longtime senator's sudden death last weekend. Darline Graham was sworn in earlier this week.
Norman acknowledged the endorsement gap during his announcement. "I wanted his blessing to run and get his support," Norman told Fox News host Kayleigh McEnany. "He decided to go with Darline, who's a nice person, and he decided to go with her. And so I respect that, but it doesn't deter my plans."
The race is shaping up to draw multiple GOP contenders. Businessman Mark Lynch, who lost to Graham in the June primary, said this week he intends to revive his campaign and compete in the special primary. Other potential candidates mentioned include Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and Rep. Nancy Mace, though neither has officially entered the race.
The special primary election is set for Aug. 11, with a filing deadline of July 21. The winner will advance to the November general election ballot.
Author Sarah Mitchell: "Norman's willingness to challenge Trump's pick shows the special election could become contentious, even as he tries to out-Trump Trump on policy."
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