Republican Senate candidates Darline Graham and Ralph Norman clashed in a runoff debate in South Carolina, sparring over foreign policy, immigration, and spending as they vie for the GOP nomination to fill the seat vacated by the death of Lindsey Graham. The debate, held Tuesday at Newberry Opera House, highlighted their competing visions just days before the August 25 runoff election.
The sharpest moment came when moderators asked Graham whether tensions between China and Taiwan pose a national security threat. Graham acknowledged her lack of expertise, stating plainly: “I’m not that informed on national security, so … but I do support our military.” Norman responded by arguing the U.S. should exhibit “peace through strength” to support Taiwan’s defense against China.
After the debate, Graham elaborated in the spin room, acknowledging foreign policy is not her strongest area while adding that she recognizes China as a national security threat. She said her campaign remains focused on economic concerns facing South Carolinians. Norman, however, argued that candidates seeking a Senate seat must be fully prepared to address all issues, including foreign policy. “By her choice, she’s running for the United States Senate. It’s a six-year term. You need to get fully versed in what issues you’re going to be dealing with. This isn’t a get-trained-on-the-job,” Norman said.
The debate quickly turned confrontational on other fronts. Graham accused Norman of delaying passage of President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” last year, arguing he had to be persuaded by Trump to support the measure. Norman defended his actions, saying his concerns centered on energy subsidies. “He said, ‘What are you holding it up for?’ I said the subsidies for electric cars is dumb. The subsidies for solar and wind are stupid. I was cutting it out and we made it better. He agreed,” Norman said.
Graham and Norman found common ground on several issues. Both expressed support for prosecuting former White House adviser Dr. Anthony Fauci and reducing the national debt. Both said Israel is an important ally to the U.S. and that artificial intelligence should be regulated. Both opposed illegal immigration and birthright citizenship, though they differed slightly on how to handle troops on the ground in Israel’s potential conflict with Iran.
The debate was moderated by Newsmax anchor Greta Van Susteren and broadcast across the state by SC ETV. Hundreds of potential voters, including candidates’ staff and lawmakers, packed the historic venue. The live audience frequently cheered, called out, laughed, and in one case booed, making their preferences known throughout the hourlong debate.
Graham won the initial primary on August 11 with 56.8% of the vote, while Norman finished second, triggering the runoff. The winner will face Democrat Annie Andrews in the November general election. Graham is the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who served from 2003 until his death in 2026. She was appointed interim senator following his death and has been endorsed by President Trump, who is scheduled to campaign for her in Myrtle Beach on Friday, August 21, days before the runoff.
Early voting for the Republican runoff began Wednesday and runs through the remainder of the week. The runoff election on August 25 will determine the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate seat, with the winner advancing to face Andrews in November.
Sources
- The State — detailed debate coverage including Graham’s national security comments, Norman’s criticism of her preparation, and candidate positions on multiple issues
- WRDW — Graham and Norman’s debate performance, early voting details, and the August 25 runoff date
- New York Times — Trump’s campaign rally scheduled for August 21 in Myrtle Beach to support Graham
- Ballotpedia — Graham’s primary win with 56.8%, Norman’s second-place finish, and the special election context triggered by Lindsey Graham’s death
