Trump backs Darline Graham for full Senate term after brother's death

President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Darline Graham to run for a full term in the U.S. Senate, seeking to fill the seat vacated by her late brother, Lindsey Graham. Trump announced his "Complete and Total Endorsement" on social media, urging her to "RUN, DARLINE, RUN!"

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She has been a WINNER all of her life and, should she accept, has my Complete and Total Endorsement.

Trump stated he had discussed a potential campaign with Darline Graham at the White House. Her potential candidacy reshapes the field of contenders, as Trump had previously suggested support for Representative Russell Fry. Other notable politicians, including Representatives Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, were also considering a run.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appointed Darline Graham to serve out the remainder of her brother's term, which concludes in January. She was sworn in as senator, expressing it was "such an honor" and vowing to be there for her brother, who died last Saturday at age 71. Lindsey Graham had suffered a tear in his aorta, according to a preliminary medical examiner's report.

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RUN, DARLINE, RUN!

Darline Graham, though new to politics, was a constant presence in her brother's political career. Their close bond was forged after their parents died when she was 13, leading Lindsey Graham to become her legal guardian and later adopt her. Trump's endorsement of Darline Graham could signal an effort to cultivate another ally in the Senate, following his historically close relationship with Lindsey Graham, whom he once called "like a member of the family."

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Lindsey has always been there for me. And now, I will be there for him.