State lawmakers and campaign representatives indicated that conservative voters immediately resisted the endorsement, framing the shortened election window as a high-stakes decision for the state's Republican electorate.
"This was always going to be a little messy because it's a warp-speed campaign for a Senate seat," said an unnamed Republican state lawmaker.
"And then Trump threw us all a curveball with Darline. That wasn't expected.
It wasn't exactly welcomed here, either. But it's the president's choice.
And voters will have their choice."
Opponents of Graham have maintained focus on their conservative records while navigating the primary without directly targeting the president or the grieving sister of the late senator.
"The conservative grassroots, who's kind of the base of the Republican electorate, instantaneously went against this," said Jordan Pace, Chairman of the South Carolina Freedom Caucus.
"This is as fast and furious as it gets."
In response to inquiries, the White House referenced Trump's initial social media statements endorsing Graham, while Graham's campaign released an advertisement stating she is "ready to serve."
Candidate representative Brittany Yanick stated that Norman "will run a positive campaign and focus on highlighting [his] proven America First conservative record," while Sanford noted his "longstanding record of accomplishment on conservative ideals."
The debate will air live from 7 p. m.
to 8 p. m.
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across Gray Media stations and digital platforms, with a potential runoff election scheduled for Aug. 25 if no candidate reaches a majority in the primary.
