Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Jul 14
Darline Graham Nordone Sworn In to Fill Lindsey Graham's Senate Seat Until January
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Jul 14

Darline Graham Nordone Sworn In to Fill Lindsey Graham's Senate Seat Until January

3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Jul 14

Summary

  • Darline Graham Nordone was ceremonially sworn in Tuesday at the U.S. Capitol, taking over South Carolina's Senate seat after her brother Lindsey Graham's death.
  • Gov. Henry McMaster appointed the 64-year-old Republican on July 13, hours after President Donald Trump publicly urged him to select her.
  • Nordone will serve only until January, completing the remainder of Graham's term after he died unexpectedly July 11 at age 71.
  • Her installation puts the first woman from South Carolina in the U.S. Senate and extends a rapid succession process triggered by Graham's sudden vacancy.

Insights

How is a 'tribute' appointment weighed against the need to fill a key Senate committee leadership role?
What challenges arise when an appointed senator serves while voters simultaneously choose a nominee for the same seat?