Trump to rally for Graham in tight South Carolina Senate race amid Russia rift

President Donald Trump is set to visit South Carolina on Wednesday to support Republican Darline Graham in her closely contested Senate race, which began less than two weeks before the November 3 election. Graham, who succeeded her late brother Lindsey as the state's senator, is currently running neck and neck with Democrat Annie Andrews in the polls.

The race is seen as a reflection of the political difficulties facing Trump's party, who have been grappling with high gas prices and the ongoing conflict in Iran. Graham has expressed disagreement with Trump's decision to waive sanctions on Russia, despite her brother's advocacy for Ukraine. Trump, however, has remained supportive of Graham, having previously counted her as one of his closest allies and a foreign policy adviser.

The visit marks a personal and politically significant moment for Graham, who has struggled to secure Democratic support for her bid to retain her seat. Non-partisan analysts rate the state as having a strong leaning towards the Republican party, with the race having tightened in recent days.