The search for a replacement senator from South Carolina is underway, with President Donald Trump advocating for a unique candidate to fill the vacancy left by the late Sen. Lindsey Graham.
Trump has recommended that South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster appoint Lindsey Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone, as interim senator for the remainder of Graham's term.
A bond between Graham and his sister was particularly close, as Darline was adopted and raised by the senator after their parents passed away.
Trump's announcement comes as a scramble takes place to fill Graham's spot and find a new GOP nominee to run in November to keep the seat in Republican hands.
McMaster is expected to announce his pick for the seat at 4 p.m. on Monday, although he has not revealed any details about his preference.
Meanwhile, Sen. Tim Scott has also expressed support for Darline Graham Nordone, stating that she would be a "fantastic pick" to serve out the remainder of the Senate term.
Scott had previously floated former Rep. Trey Gowdy and former Sen. Jim DeMint as possible replacements in the interim, but emphasized that Graham's sister would be a suitable placeholder for the voters to decide in the upcoming special election.
The special election is set to take place on August 11, with multiple Republican candidates already hinting at their intentions to run, including Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman.
The appointment of an interim senator and the upcoming special election will significantly impact the future of the Republican Party in South Carolina.
