Lindsey Graham’s Sister Darline Nordon Appointed Temporary South Carolina Senator

The sudden death of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham from aortic dissection shocked the United States. On the night between Monday and Tuesday, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster announced that Graham’s sister, Darline Graham Nordon, would serve as his temporary replacement in the Senate until his current term ends in January. Senate Majority Leader John Thune confirmed she would be sworn in on Tuesday. Nordon will be the first woman to represent South Carolina in the Senate.

Darline Nordon expressed honor at the appointment, recalling their close relationship: "Lindsey was always there for me. Now I will be there for him." Graham, who died at age 71 on Saturday night, never married or had children, but was very close to his sister, having been her legal guardian after their parents died young. She frequently supported his political career by speaking at events and appearing in campaign ads.

Governor McMaster said he spoke with Nordon shortly after Graham’s death and was impressed by her readiness to accept the responsibility. President Donald Trump also endorsed the appointment, calling Graham a "true American patriot" and expressing shock at his passing. Trump described Graham as a "fantastic" politician who could work across party lines and said he had spoken with him minutes before the medical emergency.

Nordon, an optometrist with experience in state agencies, lives in Lexington, South Carolina, and holds a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling. A special election will be held next month to choose a Republican candidate for the general election to fill Graham’s seat, which he had sought to retain for a fifth term this year.