Darline Graham is sworn in as senator to fill her brother Lindsey Graham’s seat
Darline Graham has been sworn in as a U.S. Senator to complete the term of her late brother, Lindsey Graham, following his unexpected death. This appointment marks the first time a sibling has replaced a deceased senator, with support from state leadership and President Trump.
Why it matters
The appointment of a family member to a legislative seat is a rare political event that raises questions about succession and political continuity.
WASHINGTON — Darline Graham was sworn in Tuesday afternoon to fill the seat of her older brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., three days after he died unexpectedly. She was sworn in to a standing ovation by Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, the Senate president pro tempore. While her legal name since marriage is Darline Graham Nordone, a spokesperson said she will go by Darline Graham in the Senate. According to records, it is the first instance of a sibling being appointed to replace a deceased senator. She was appointed one day earlier by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster to finish her brother’s term, which was set to last until early January.
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