‘It's put up or shut up time’: Battleground Republicans want the Darline treatment
The president went to great lengths to push his candidate over the finish line in South Carolina, but Republicans want the same support in races that will actually determine control of Congress.
President Donald Trump secured a significant victory in Tuesday night's Senate GOP runoff in South Carolina, as Republican Sen. Darline Graham defeated her Republican opponent, Ralph Norman. This win comes after several of Trump's endorsed candidates lost in recent primaries. Graham, a political novice, could not have secured this victory without Trump's support, highlighting the enduring influence of the president among the Republican electorate in the conservative state.
However, South Carolina's Senate seat does not dictate the balance of power in Washington, and GOP strategists involved in critical swing state campaigns are eager for Trump to focus on these states. Trump's backing of Graham played a crucial role in her victory, as he championed her appointment, endorsed her early, stood by her during her debate struggles, and even campaigned in Myrtle Beach.
While the White House has not commented, several Republican strategists believe that Trump's involvement could signal more significant support in other competitive states in the months leading up to the midterms. Trump has amassed a substantial amount of cash, with some strategists urging him to invest in battleground races, but there is no certainty that he will follow through.
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