Trump suggests late Senator Graham's sister replace him in Senate

Donald Trump has put forward Darlene Graham Norton, the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, as a candidate to fill his vacant Senate seat. Trump announced his recommendation to South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster on Truth Social, calling it a "magnificent tribute" to Lindsey Graham.

Norton, who has no political experience and has largely stayed out of the political spotlight, would serve as a temporary senator. Governor McMaster has the authority to appoint a temporary replacement. Graham's sudden death at 71, while campaigning for a fifth term, has triggered expedited party primaries to select a candidate for the November election.

Norton, who is nine years younger than her brother, has supported his political ambitions and worked to help people with disabilities find employment. She grew up with Graham in modest circumstances, and he was a paternal figure to her after their parents' deaths. She was also involved in his early political campaigns, accompanying him door-to-door when he first ran for the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1992.

It remains unclear if Norton plans to run in the August 11 special primary election to secure a full six-year term in the Senate. She has not yet commented on requests for a statement. The Washington Post reports that both Trump and Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina support Norton's potential appointment.

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I recommended to Governor Henry McMaster the wonderful sister of Lindsey Graham, Darlene, to be appointed interim senator from the great state of South Carolina. It would be a magnificent tribute to Lindsey, who loved her very much!