Darline Graham Nordone was officially sworn in Tuesday as South Carolina‘s newest U.S. senator, taking the oath of office to complete the remainder of the term held by her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham, who died unexpectedly last week at the age of 71.
The oath of office was administered by Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley during a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol attended by senators, family members, and officials from the Trump administration. Nordone became the first woman ever to represent South Carolina in the U.S. Senate.
Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Nordone on Monday after praising her years of public service and describing her as someone who shares her brother’s values and commitment to the people of South Carolina. President Trump also endorsed the appointment, calling it a fitting tribute to one of his closest allies in Congress.
During brief remarks after taking the oath, Nordone said it was the honor of a lifetime to continue her brother’s work. She pledged to serve South Carolina with integrity while supporting President Trump’s agenda and preserving Lindsey Graham’s legacy of public service.
Nordone has spent much of her career in public service, including work with South Carolina’s Commission for the Blind, the Department of Employment and Workforce, and the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. Although she has never previously held elected office, she was a familiar presence throughout her brother’s political career and frequently campaigned alongside him.
Her appointment is temporary and will expire in January 2027. South Carolina Republicans will hold a special primary on Aug. 11 to select the party’s nominee for the November election, with several prominent Republicans expected to compete for the seat.
Lindsey Graham died on July 11 from an aortic dissection caused by underlying cardiovascular disease, according to preliminary findings from the District of Columbia medical examiner. His death ended more than two decades of service in the Senate and prompted tributes from President Donald Trump, lawmakers, and world leaders.
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