# Former SC GOP chair: ‘Not a given’ Darline Graham will win 

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/former-sc-gop-chair-not-a-given-darline-graham-will-win/
- Published: 2026-07-22T15:54:08+00:00
- Updated: 2026-07-28T07:13:01+00:00
- Original publisher: The Hill (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/5983453-darline-graham-south-carolina-senate-primary-trump-endorsement/
- Topics: Government, Politics

## Key points

- Trump’s backing does not guarantee Graham the Republican nomination.
- Graham faces a short campaign and limited political experience.
- South Carolina’s special primary takes place on 11 August.

## Summary

Former South Carolina Republican Party chairman Chad Connelly said it is “not a given” that Senator Darline Graham will win the state’s Republican primary, despite President Trump’s endorsement. His comments underline uncertainty over whether Graham, who was appointed after the death of her brother Lindsey Graham, can quickly build support as a first-time candidate in a compressed race.

Connelly said Graham must reach voters through a grassroots campaign, having had little time to introduce herself to constituents. The Republican special primary is scheduled for 11 August, with its winner set to face Democrat Annie Andrews in November for a full six-year Senate term; Graham is competing against other Republicans, including sitting House members.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.