By Karim Hammam
Democrat Annie Andrews, a pediatrician, defeated Republican Darline Graham in South Carolina's Senate race, marking the first Democratic Senate victory in the state in 28 years. The seat was heavily backed by former President Donald Trump.
Upset in Republican stronghold
South Carolina, which Trump carried by 18 percentage points in the previous presidential election, had been considered safe Republican territory. Andrews' win gives Democrats a pickup as they seek a net four-seat gain to break the GOP's 53-47 Senate majority.
Trump's endorsement and candidate struggles
Trump endorsed Graham, the sister of Senator Lindsey Graham, after the senator's death, urging her to seek a full six-year term despite her limited experience. Graham won the Republican nomination in a special runoff but faced bipartisan criticism after admitting she was "not that informed on national security" during a debate.
Fundraising and outside spending
Andrews out-fundraised Graham by $22 million. Outside Republican groups spent $27 million to retain the seat, while Democratic groups invested $24 million to flip it.
Campaign rhetoric and attacks
Trump held a rally in the state where he repeatedly used anti-transgender slurs against Andrews, who is not transgender. Graham also attacked her Democratic rival with an expletive, calling her "bat s*** crazy." Andrews responded by asking if wanting cheaper gas and groceries was crazy.
