Lone debate for South Carolina Senate gets testy: 5 takeaways

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Darline Graham, R-S.C., and Democratic nominee Annie Andrews engaged in a heated debate during their only televised clash, as the South Carolina Senate race appeared to tighten just weeks before the midterms. The candidates tackled various topics, ranging from Iran to the economy and artificial intelligence, yet their vehement exchange centered on their long-simmering feud that had previously been waged through millions of dollars in advertisements.

Lindsey Graham, the Republican incumbent, had died suddenly in July, leaving his seat vacant. Darline Graham, having been appointed to serve out the remainder of her late brother’s term, decided to enter the special primary and secured a victory. The race has become increasingly competitive as Democrats seek to reclaim control of Congress, and some Republican candidates have distanced themselves from President Trump, whose favorability has been waning.

During the debate, Graham frequently referenced her support for the president, though not as vehemently as in the past. Andrews, on the other hand, accused Graham of being too accommodating to Democrats and criticized her use of her maiden name for political gain. Graham defended her use of her husband's last name, stating it was only for a social media page, not legal documents.

In a discussion about Iran, Andrews criticized Graham for struggling to answer a question regarding U.S. interests in the South China Sea during a GOP runoff debate, calling her "unserious and unqualified." The candidates found themselves at odds over Graham's qualifications to serve a full six-year term, with Andrews asserting that Graham had shown she was not up for the job, while Graham insisted she was just as qualified as Andrews.

Libertarian candidate Kasie Whitener participated on the stage but the main focus of the debate was between Graham and Andrews. South Carolina will conduct two weeks of early voting starting October 19th, with the general election taking place in November.