Lindsey Graham’s sister, Darline Graham Nordone, set to be tapped to serve out Senate term
South Carolina Governor Names Lindsey Graham's Sister for Senate Seat
A Family Legacy Continues in Washington
Lindsey Graham s sister Darline Graham - South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster is set to appoint Lindsey Graham s sister Darline Graham Nordone to complete the late senator's term in the United States Senate. The announcement is expected to come during a press conference on Monday afternoon at 4 p.m. Nordone will serve as the interim senator until the new Congress convenes on January 3, 2025. This historic appointment marks the first time a senator's sibling has been selected to fill such a vacancy in South Carolina's political history.
The relationship between Lindsey Graham and Nordone has always been extraordinary. When Lindsey Graham was only 22 years old, he took on the responsibility of raising his younger sister after both of their parents died within fifteen months of each other. Nordone was just 13 years old at the time. This profound bond has remained strong throughout the decades, with Nordone frequently appearing at her brother's political rallies, campaign events, and official ceremonies across South Carolina and beyond.
Leadership Endorsements Pour In
Political support for Nordone's appointment has been swift and enthusiastic. President Donald Trump was among the earliest supporters, taking to Truth Social on Monday morning to publicly recommend her for the position. In his message, Trump wrote that he had personally suggested "Lindsey Graham's wonderful sister, Darline" to Governor McMaster for the interim Senate role. The former president emphasized that this selection would serve as "a fabulous tribute to Lindsey, who loved her dearly."
"I recommended, to Governor Henry McMaster, Lindsey Graham's wonderful sister, Darline, to serve as interim Senator from the Great State of South Carolina," Trump wrote. "This would be a fabulous tribute to Lindsey, who loved her dearly!"
Senate Majority Leader John Thune also voiced strong approval for the selection, telling CNN reporters that appointing Graham's sister "makes a lot of sense" given the circumstances. South Carolina Senator Tim Scott has been particularly vocal, calling Nordone "a wonderful placeholder" during his appearance on CBS Mornings. Scott has reportedly held multiple conversations with Nordone over the past day and plans to attend Monday's announcement ceremony.
What Comes Next for South Carolina
The appointment triggers a clear timeline for South Carolina's political future. A special Republican primary election will take place on August 11 to select the party's nominee for the general election. The winner of that contest will face voters in November and, if successful, will serve a full six-year term in the Senate beginning in 2025.
Lindsey Graham, who was actively campaigning for his own reelection when he died on Saturday, passed away at age 71. Medical examiners determined that aortic dissection—a serious condition involving a tear in the body's main artery—caused his death. The sudden passing created an opening for Nordone to step into a major political role that she had never previously held.
Nordone is expected to be sworn in on Wednesday following the governor's formal declaration. This schedule maintains steady representation for South Carolina while the state moves toward its special primary and eventual general election. For many observers, Nordone's selection represents both a meaningful personal tribute to her brother's memory and a practical approach to keeping South Carolina's voice in the Senate strong during this transitional period.