Ralph Norman, a Republican representative from South Carolina, announced on Saturday that he will seek the U.S. Senate seat vacated by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, which will be decided in a special primary on August 11 with a possible runoff on August 25. The announcement followed former President Donald Trump's statement that he had asked Graham's sister, Darline Graham, to run for the seat and pledged his endorsement.

Graham died on July 11 at age 71 after a brief illness, prompting a Republican scramble for the seat he had held since 2003. Governor Henry McMaster appointed Darline Graham as an interim senator on Tuesday, the first sibling to serve temporarily and the first woman to represent South Carolina in the Senate. Candidates may file for the election next week; former Graham challenger Mark Lynch, attorney Duke Buckner, and Representative Nancy Mace have indicated interest.

Norman, 73, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, said he would focus on passing the Save America Act and eliminating the filibuster, describing his campaign as a continuation of Graham's legacy while emphasizing President Trump's agenda. He told Fox host Kayleigh McEnany that he would be laser-focused on the legislation and the filibuster vote on day one. Although he sought Trump's support, he said the president's decision to back Darline Graham did not deter him, adding that he remains committed to winning the primary. Former Senator Rick Scott of Florida and Senator Mike Lee of Utah issued statements of support for Norman's bid on Friday.

The special primary will determine the Republican nominee who will face Democrat Annie Andrews in the November general election. The outcome of the primary remains undecided, and the filing deadline for candidates is set for next week.