Darline Graham tests value of a famous name vs. lack of experience in South Carolina primary

Darline Graham, the daughter of former South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, has been appointed to replace him in the U.S. Senate following his sudden death. Her appointment has garnered mixed reactions among Republican voters in the state. While some, like Kathy Bustos of Mount Pleasant, appreciate the gesture and see it as a way to complete Lindsey Graham's term, others are skeptical about her qualifications and readiness to run for the Senate.

Graham, who has remained largely unknown in the state’s political circles, has the endorsement of President Donald Trump and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, but her absence from the campaign trail may work against her. With a crowded field of contenders, including Representatives Russell Fry and Ralph Norman, as well as former Governor Mark Sanford, a runoff election is more likely to take place on August 25.

Graham has chosen to stay in Washington, working hard for her constituents, and has expressed her commitment to being a great friend and ally to Trump. However, some of her supporters, like Teresa Castrinos, believe she is putting South Carolina first by prioritizing her duties as a senator over campaigning.