By Salma El-Sakka
Democrat Annie Andrews has narrowed the gap in South Carolina's U.S. Senate race, challenging Republican Darline Graham for the seat left vacant by the death of longtime Sen. Lindsey Graham in July.
Graham appointed, then runs for full term
Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Darline Graham, Lindsey Graham's sister, to fill the seat temporarily. She later entered a snap primary organized a month after her brother's death, winning with President Donald Trump's endorsement despite acknowledging that national security "is not my thing."
Trump's involvement draws criticism
Trump's forceful backing of Graham alienated some independent voters and supporters of primary rival Rep. Ralph Norman, who argued the choice should belong to voters. Concerns also arose about a potential Graham family dynasty and Graham's limited political experience.
Andrews focuses on economics, avoids national Democrats
Andrews, who had been campaigning for over a year before Lindsey Graham's death, has run an independent-style campaign emphasizing economic issues and criticizing the Graham political dynasty. She has rarely appeared with prominent Democrats, though visits from former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Sen. Mark Kelly boosted her visibility.
Polls show tight race despite Republican history
An October New York Times/Siena poll indicated a close contest. However, South Carolina has not elected a Democrat to the Senate since Fritz Hollings in 1998, and Republicans have won statewide by double-digit margins this century. Straight-ticket voting also advantages the GOP.
Other candidates on ballot
Libertarian and Constitution Party candidates are also running in the general election. The race for the state's open governor's seat has not appeared as competitive as the Senate contest.
