Trump-backed Graham wins South Carolina runoff in boost for president

After a series of primary setbacks, President Donald Trump secured a significant win in South Carolina's Republican Senate runoff election on Tuesday, according to projections from CNN and NBC. The victor was Darline Graham, a political newcomer who succeeded her late brother Lindsey Graham in the US Senate. Graham edged out veteran congressman Ralph Norman, with the latter's victory unprecedented in his long political career.

Trump's endorsement played a pivotal role in Graham's triumph. The president campaigned extensively in the state, urging supporters to view him as a viable candidate. He also made a last-minute appearance via telephone rally before the vote. The MAGA Inc political organization, supportive of Trump, also poured significant resources into the race, spending over $827,000 on phone calls and text messages.

The South Carolina victory is a morale boost for Trump, who had been grappling with a series of primary defeats, including six in the previous two weeks. These losses, coupled with a sharp decline in his approval ratings, raised concerns about his control over the Republican Party.

Beyond South Carolina, Trump's influence is being tested in Oklahoma, another key Republican stronghold. His preferred candidate, Mike Mazzei, is facing off against state attorney general Gentner Drummond in the gubernatorial nomination runoff. Mazzei's endorsement carries a heavy price tag; over $9 million has been spent on the race so far.

Trump has consistently dismissed Drummond as a "fake Republican," citing his opposition to a proposed aluminum smelter that Trump believed could harm the local environment. Despite these tensions, a win for Mazzei in the Oklahoma race would bolster Trump's struggling primary record.