By Karim Hammam
Democrat Annie Andrews defeated Republican Sen. Darline Graham in South Carolina’s Senate race, NBC News projects, marking the state’s first Democratic senator in more than 20 years. Graham had been appointed to the seat in July after her brother, longtime Sen. Lindsey Graham, died suddenly.
Appointment and primary
Graham, a former state government administrator, was appointed by Gov. Henry McMaster. She won a special GOP primary but faced criticism for policy gaps, including admitting she was “not that informed on national security” during a debate.
Fundraising disparity
Andrews, a pediatrician, significantly outraised and outspent Graham. In the final pre-election period, Andrews raised more than $4 million and spent over $4.6 million in two weeks, while Graham’s campaign raised about $90,000 and spent $65,000.
Outside spending
The Senate Leadership Fund, a GOP super PAC, spent $13 million to support Graham, while the Democratic-aligned Senate Majority PAC announced a last-minute $750,000 digital buy.
Debate clashes
In an October debate, Graham accused Andrews of being unwilling to “stand up to socialist Democrats,” while Andrews called Graham a rubber stamp for Trump’s agenda. Graham also highlighted Andrews’ past role as a senior adviser to Everytown, a gun control group.
Break with Trump
Graham broke with President Trump last month after he announced he would waive sanctions against Russia, circumventing a law named after her brother. Graham said she would pressure Russia to end the war and lower gas prices, expressing distrust of Putin.
