South Carolina Representative Ralph Norman announced his candidacy for the Senate seat vacated by the death of Senator Lindsey Graham. Norman revealed his decision on Fox News' "Saturday In America" program.
"I am announcing that I will run for the Senate, I am throwing my hat in the ring, and from day one I will focus on passing President Trump's America First agenda," Norman said, adding that he supports Trump's SAVE America Act bill and wants to completely eliminate the filibuster in the Senate.
Norman's move came just after former President Donald Trump announced his endorsement of Darline Graham, who was appointed interim senator and is Graham's sister, for a full term. Trump wrote on Truth Social, "I hope Darline does it, there is no one better to honor the legacy of her late brother Lindsey."
Norman emphasized that he respects Trump's endorsement of Darline Graham but that it did not change his own plans. "He chose Darline, she is a good person, I respect that, but it doesn't stop my plans. I'm in it to win it," he said.
Norman will compete in the special Republican primary on August 11. Despite not receiving Trump's endorsement, Norman has received support from figures like Senator Mike Lee and Senator Rick Scott. Both senators are known for opposing the elimination of the filibuster.
At least two other candidates are in the race against Norman: businessman Mark Lynch, who ran against Lindsey Graham in the June primary, and attorney Duke Buckner. Additionally, there is talk that Representative Russell Fry may also enter the race.
