South Carolina’s newly appointed interim U.S. Senator Darline Graham Nordone addressed the people of her state in an open letter posted to X on Saturday, reflecting on the sudden loss of her brother, the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, and her commitment to stepping into the role.
Nordone began the letter by addressing her brother’s death a week before, writing, “Dear Fellow South Carolinians, I never imagined I would be speaking to you under these circumstances.”
“If I could trade this moment and have Lindsey back, I would do so in a heartbeat,” she continued.
Darline Graham expressed gratitude for the support her family has received. “I have been amazed and appreciative of the outpouring of love and support from the people of South Carolina,” she said. “I always knew Lindsey was an amazing person, but I have been overwhelmed by how many people truly loved him and how many lives he touched.”
The letter highlighted Lindsey Graham’s lifelong dedication to South Carolina and the nation and also described Nordone’s decision to accept the appointment as a continuation of family values instilled in them from an early age.
“Lindsey dedicated his life to serving South Carolina and defending our nation. He accomplished so much, yet he still had so many big ideas that he was determined to see through,” she wrote, adding, “Now, it’s time for me to step up for South Carolina, just like he stepped up for me when our parents died. In the most challenging of times, I’ve learned God often calls on ordinary people to do extraordinary things.”
She acknowledged that she brings her own approach to public service. “Yet I am not Lindsey. I have my own way of doing things. But we were raised with the same values: work hard each day, trust in the Lord, remember your roots, and never forget who you work for.”
She cited her career focused on helping South Carolinians with disabilities find employment and live independently as an example of that service.
The open letter also thanked Lindsey Graham’s staff for their work during a difficult period. “On behalf of my family and Lindsey’s staff — who have worked tirelessly through their own grief while continuing to serve the people — thank you.”
She concluded by asking for prayers: “I did not seek this moment. But it’s here. Now, I’m asking for your prayers. God Bless.”
The letter comes days after South Carolina Republican Governor Henry McMaster appointed Nordone to fill the remainder of her brother’s Senate term after she was recommended by President Donald Trump, saying it would be a fitting tribute to Lindsey Graham, who had spoken highly of his sister in past interviews. She accepted the position in an emotional public appearance.
“Lindsey has always been there for me. Now, I will be there for him,” she said last week.
Supporters, including members of Graham’s former staff and fellow South Carolina officials, praised her background in state government, workforce development, and her personal character. With her appointment, Nordone became the first woman to represent South Carolina in the U.S. Senate. She will serve out the remainder of her brother’s term, which ends in January 2027.
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