Who will replace Trump ally Lindsey Graham in the US Senate?
Following the sudden death of US Senator Lindsey Graham, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster is expected to appoint a replacement to fill the seat. The appointment is seen as a strategic move to maintain Republican control and support the President's legislative agenda.
Why it matters
Senate vacancies can shift the balance of power in the US government, particularly during critical legislative periods.
The US president suggests he is considering a potential candidate to fill the late senator’s seat in South Carolina.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info US Senator Lindsey Graham was a staunch supporter of Israel [File: Ammar Awad/Reuters] By Al Jazeera Staff Published On 12 Jul 2026 12 Jul 2026 The disadvantage that the Republican majority in the United States Senate has suffered from the death of Lindsey Graham is likely to be short-lived.
Currently, Republicans hold 52 seats in the 100-member chamber, after losing Graham to a “brief and sudden illness” late on Saturday, according to his office.
But South Carolina’s election laws give Republican Governor Henry McMaster the authority to immediately appoint a replacement to fill Graham’s seat.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in