US President Donald Trump on Monday endorsed Darline Graham Nordone, sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, to serve as South Carolina’s interim senator while Republicans prepare a special election to fill the seat permanently. Trump urged Governor Henry McMaster to appoint Nordone to complete Graham’s term, which ends in January. McMaster is expected to announce his decision later that day. Graham died at age 71 from a ruptured aorta linked to chronic heart disease. Nordone, who was raised by her brother after their parents’ deaths, described herself as devastated by the loss. Under state law, the governor appoints an interim senator until January, separate from the special election process. Filing for the Republican primary opens July 21, with primaries on August 11, a possible runoff August 25, and the general election November 3. Several Republicans are considering bids for the full term, while others have ruled themselves out.
