8 Takeaways from Tuesday’s Primaries
NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-08-12 03:56:00 — www.nytimes.com
Trump’s Endorsement Power on Display in South Carolina Senate Race
President Trump’s influence over Republican politics was once again evident as Senator Darline Graham, his choice to succeed her late brother Lindsey Graham, advanced to a runoff in South Carolina’s special Senate primary. Graham, a political newcomer, was tapped to finish her brother’s term and subsequently met with the president in the Oval Office. The president made it clear that he admired her poise, signaling strong support for her candidacy.
Graham’s advancement over more experienced candidates underscores the continued sway that Trump holds within the Republican Party. Her campaign has closely aligned with Trump’s domestic agenda, and she has touted legislative achievements, including passing a bill sanctioning Russia, as evidence of her commitment to the priorities that defined her brother’s tenure.
The runoff will see Graham face off against Representative Ralph Norman, a hard-line conservative. Notably, Graham stands as the lone Trump-supported candidate in the race, while Norman’s previous support for Nikki Haley in the 2024 presidential contest may have cost him Trump’s favor. Graham stated she is “hopeful” that Trump will campaign for her in the runoff, but added, “we’ll see.”
This contest highlights the ongoing significance of Trump’s endorsement in Republican primaries and the way his preferences continue to shape the party’s direction. As the runoff approaches, all eyes will be on whether Trump’s backing will once again prove decisive.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/12/us/politics/south-carolina-wisconsin-minnesota-primaries.html