GOP Candidates Debate Key Issues in South Carolina Senate Race

Five GOP candidates participated in a debate on August 3, 2026, in South Carolina, aiming to fill the Senate seat left vacant by the late Sen. Lindsey Graham. The candidates included Sen. Darlene Graham Nordone, Rep. Ralph Norman, Rep. Russel Fry, businessman Mark Lynch, and former Governor Mark Sanford. While they shared common ground on many party issues, differences emerged on topics such as the war in Iran, government spending, and the filibuster. Nordone, who has President Trump's endorsement, expressed support for ending the filibuster, stating that it would eventually be eliminated by Democrats. Sanford emphasized that only Congress should have the authority to declare war, reflecting concerns over presidential powers. Other candidates, including Fry, expressed support for addressing Iran's nuclear capabilities but opposed deploying U.S. troops. Lynch raised concerns about the expansion of datacenters, highlighting local community issues. The debate concluded with Nordone responding to criticisms from Lynch regarding her brother's record. The primary election is scheduled for August 11, 2026, with the winner facing Democratic nominee Annie Andrews in the general election on November 3, 2026.