In South Carolina's Republican Senate primary held on August 11, 2026, Darline Graham, a former state representative endorsed by former President Donald Trump, holds a slim lead over her opponent, but the race appears headed for a runoff. With nearly all precincts reporting, Graham has secured about 48% of the vote, just short of the 50% threshold required to avoid a runoff, according to unofficial results from the South Carolina Election Commission.
Her main challenger, state Senator Josh Kimbrell, trails with approximately 42% of the vote, while a third candidate, businesswoman Sheri Few, has taken around 10%. The runoff, if confirmed, would take place on August 25, 2026. Graham's campaign has emphasized her alignment with Trump's agenda, including border security and economic policies.
Kimbrell, who has positioned himself as a more conservative alternative, has not conceded and is expected to campaign aggressively ahead of the runoff. Political analysts note that runoff elections in South Carolina often see lower turnout, which could affect the outcome.
The winner of the primary will face Democratic nominee Catherine Fleming Bruce in the November general election for the seat currently held by retiring Republican Senator Lindsey Graham.
