Darline Graham has officially been sworn in as a United States senator, taking over the South Carolina Senate seat following the death of her brother, longtime Republican Senator Lindsey Graham.
Eko Hot News reports that Darline Graham took the oath of office on Tuesday after being appointed by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to complete the remaining months of her late brother’s current Senate term.
The appointment came just days after Lindsey Graham died unexpectedly in Washington, D.C., at the age of 71.
According to preliminary findings released by the medical examiner, the senator died after suffering an aortic dissection, a serious medical condition involving a tear in the body’s main artery.
Governor McMaster announced Darline Graham’s appointment on Monday, describing her decision to serve as an act of duty and public service during a difficult moment for the Graham family.
The governor said he had spoken with her shortly after her brother’s passing and was encouraged by her willingness to temporarily represent South Carolina in the U.S. Senate.
Darline Graham becomes the first woman to represent South Carolina in the United States Senate.
Although she has never held elected public office, she has built a career in public service and healthcare.
She previously worked as an optician and also served with the South Carolina Commission for the Blind and the Department of Employment and Workforce.
Speaking after her appointment, Darline Graham reflected on her close relationship with her late brother, who became her legal guardian after the death of their parents.
She said Lindsey Graham had always supported and guided her throughout her life, adding that she now hopes to honour his legacy through public service.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune welcomed the new senator, expressing confidence that she would continue her brother’s long record of representing South Carolina.
Lindsey Graham had served in the U.S. Senate since 2003 and was one of the Republican Party’s most recognisable lawmakers.
During his career, he chaired the Senate Budget Committee and was expected to become the ranking Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee in the next Congress.
Known as a close ally of President Donald Trump, Graham played a prominent role in debates on national security, judicial appointments and foreign policy.
President Trump publicly endorsed Darline Graham’s appointment, describing the decision as an appropriate choice during a period of transition for the state.
Under South Carolina law, the temporary appointment will remain in effect until a successor is elected.
State election officials have announced that a special Republican primary will be held to determine the party’s nominee for the Senate seat.
The filing period for interested candidates is scheduled to begin later this month, with the primary election expected to take place in August.
The eventual Republican nominee will contest the general election in November to determine who completes the remainder of the Senate term.
Several prominent South Carolina Republicans are already being mentioned as potential candidates, including Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and Representatives Nancy Mace, Russell Fry and Ralph Norman.
Political analysts expect the race to attract significant national attention because of Lindsey Graham’s long influence within the Republican Party.
Tributes have continued to pour in from political leaders across the United States, many remembering Graham for his decades of public service and his commitment to South Carolina.
Supporters have also praised Darline Graham for accepting the responsibility of serving the state during a period of mourning and political transition.
Her appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for South Carolina’s representation in Washington while the state prepares for a closely watched special election.
