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Former President Donald Trump has publicly supported Darline Graham Nordone, the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, to take on the role of interim US senator for South Carolina following her brother's passing. In a post shared on Truth Social, Trump stated that he had suggested Nordone to Governor Henry McMaster, who is responsible for appointing an interim senator until a special election occurs. Trump expressed, "I recommended, to Governor Henry McMaster, Lindsey Graham's wonderful sister, Darline, to serve as interim Senator from the Great State of South Carolina. This would be a fabulous tribute to Lindsey, who loved her dearly!" Additionally, Senate Majority Leader John Thune has shown his support for Nordone during a CNN interview.

Darline Graham Nordone is the younger sister of Senator Graham and his closest surviving relative. Lindsey Graham, who never married or had children, often highlighted his strong bond with his sister. The siblings grew up in Central, South Carolina, where their parents operated the Sanitary Cafe, a local restaurant and bar. After the death of their mother from Hodgkin's lymphoma in 1976 and their father's subsequent heart attack, Graham took on the responsibility of raising Nordone while still attending college. As reported by the Post and Courier, Graham later adopted Nordone after enlisting in the US Air Force, allowing her to access military benefits. He became her legal guardian and played a significant role in her upbringing. During Graham's 2015 presidential campaign, Nordone frequently joined him at various events. She described her brother as a parental figure, stating, "Lindsey was always my parent," in an interview with The New York Times. A mother of two, Nordone has dedicated her career to assisting individuals with disabilities in finding jobs and has been a steadfast supporter throughout her brother's political journey.

The passing of Graham on Saturday due to an aortic dissection has sparked a competitive race among South Carolina Republicans to fill the four-term senator's position on the November ballot. Political analyst Scott Huffmon mentioned that several notable Republicans might consider running, including Representatives Ralph Norman, Nancy Mace, Russell Fry, and Joe Wilson, along with former Governor Nikki Haley and Lieutenant Governor Pam Evette. Huffmon noted that Governor McMaster faces the decision of whether to appoint someone likely to run for election or a caretaker senator. Reports indicate that Evette has been urged by supporters to run but has chosen not to comment on her political aspirations, emphasizing the need to honor Graham's legacy. Representative Joe Wilson informed Trump of his intention to remain in the House of Representatives to help maintain the Republican majority. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has also reportedly decided against a Senate run. Meanwhile, Democrats have nominated Charleston pediatrician Annie Andrews for the upcoming general election.

According to South Carolina law, the filing period for the special Republican primary will commence on July 21 and last for one week. The primary election is set for August 11, with a potential runoff on August 25 if no candidate secures a majority. The Republican nominee will then face Democrat Annie Andrews in the general election scheduled for November 3. This expedited timeline may pose logistical challenges due to federal regulations regarding ballot mailing for military personnel and overseas voters. A preliminary assessment by the Office of the Medical Examiner in Washington, D.C., indicated that Senator Graham's death was likely caused by an aortic dissection linked to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Officials have stated that these findings are preliminary, with additional toxicological and microscopic tests pending. Graham's office had previously reported that he passed away following a "brief and sudden illness" and requested privacy for his family during this time.