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NBC News projects that Democrat Annie Andrews has won the South Carolina Senate race, defeating Republican Senator Darline Graham. Graham, who was endorsed by President Donald Trump, is the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham.
The race was unexpectedly competitive, with Andrews gaining ground as a well-funded challenger appealing to independents. According to The Post and Courier, the typically safe Republican seat became contentious after Lindsey Graham's unexpected death in July. Darline Graham was appointed to fill his seat and later won a special primary to become the Republican nominee.
Andrews, a pediatrician from Mount Pleasant, previously ran for Congress and lost to Republican Nancy Mace four years ago. Her campaign gained momentum despite South Carolina's history as a Republican stronghold. Slate reported that with 56 percent of the vote counted, Andrews was leading with 51.7 percent to Graham's 46.6 percent.
The race was marked by internal divisions within the Republican Party, with some members feeling that Darline Graham was "ordained" as the candidate due to her family ties. Her lack of political experience and controversial statements during debates also contributed to the challenges she faced.
Andrews' victory is seen as part of a broader trend of Democratic gains in traditionally Republican areas, as noted by TIME. This shift reflects national political dynamics, including President Trump's declining approval ratings and local factors such as the impact of Lindsey Graham's death on the race.