Interim Senator Darline Graham (R-SC) made a viral gaffe when asked a foreign policy question during a Republican primary runoff debate against U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman on Tuesday. The two candidates are vying to secure the GOP nomination for the full six-year term — as the late Senator Lindsey Graham had already secured the nomination before his death — in an August 25 runoff election.
The event, which was moderated by veteran journalist Greta Van Susteren and hosted in connection with South Carolina ETV and Public Radio, focused on a range of topics ahead of the runoff. It took place a day before early voting is set to begin and featured a wide range of topics.
In one moment that has since gone viral on social media, Graham was asked a question centered on national security matters involving Taiwan and the South China Sea. “Are Taiwan and the South China Sea national security issues for the United States? If so, why?” Van Susteren asked the interim senator.
“I’m just going to be honest here,” Graham responded. “I’m not… that informed on national security, so… but I do support the military,” she continued before stating that her late brother served in the Air Force.
“I’m not a polished politician up here. National security is not my thing, not my area of expertise, but I do support the military.”
🚨Stunning debate flop from Darline Graham!
“I’m just gonna be honest—I’m not that informed on national security.”
The main criticism is that she’s not qualified for this 6-year position.
Now she reveals she can’t answer basic national security questions! pic.twitter.com/xehHbf2S8N
— Adam Morgan (@RepAdamMorgan) August 18, 2026
Graham was appointed to the Senate by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster following the death of her brother, who passed away last month at the age of 71 after suffering a cardiac event. She is currently serving out the remainder of Lindsey’s term, which ends in January. Prior to the appointment, Graham had worked in vocational rehabilitation and led the South Carolina Commission for the Blind.
Graham announced her candidacy for a full term shortly after the appointment. A special Republican primary took place on August 11, in which she finished first among multiple candidates with a little over 30 percent of the vote and advanced to a runoff election against Norman. Other participants in the primary included U.S. Rep. Russell Fry, former Governor Mark Sanford, and businessman Mark Lynch
Since entering the race, Graham has received several prominent endorsements, including that of President Donald Trump and third-place finisher Russel Fry.
