CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) – Darline Graham Nordone has been appointed to fill the remaining months of her late brother, Senator Lindsey Graham’s, term following his passing over the weekend. Despite having no prior experience in office, Nordone has been a steadfast supporter of her brother throughout his political career, appearing with him in speeches, public events, and campaign advertisements.
The bond between Lindsey and Darline is deeply personal, originating from their shared challenges during childhood. Their mother passed away in 1976 after battling Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and just fifteen months later, their father suffered a fatal heart attack. Only 22 at the time, Lindsey took on the role of legal guardian for his 13-year-old sister, ensuring her well-being and care.
Now, following the recommendation of South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, who selected Nordone to serve in her brother’s Senate seat until January, she is poised to head to Washington, D.C. She is tasked with upholding and advocating for the interests her brother fought for passionately during his time in office.
A special primary, scheduled for next month, will determine which Republican candidate will advance to face Democrat Annie Andrews in the general election in November. This upcoming election serves as a pivotal moment for the Graham political legacy in South Carolina.
Throughout their lives together, Lindsey remained committed to Darline’s upbringing. He often reflected on their difficult upbringing, stating in a 2015 interview that he felt an immense sense of responsibility towards his younger sister. “I can remember the day my father passed away, standing in the living room... Lindsey wrapped his arms around me and promised me he would always be there for me and always take care of me,” Nordone recounted.
In addition to their personal relationship, the siblings frequently appeared together at political functions. Lindsey, who never married and had no children, often humorously referred to Darline as part of a “rotating” cast of White House hosts in his presidential run of 2016. Their strong familial bond was evident as they supported each other, especially on significant occasions such as Lindsey’s filing for candidacy paperwork this year.
Darline went on to marry, have children, and later grandchildren while working with individuals with disabilities. Lindsey Graham publicly stated that his sister's successes were among the highlights of his life, reflecting how their shared experiences molded both of them.
Reflecting on their upbringing, Bob McAlister, a former campaign consultant to Lindsey, noted the profound impact their childhood hardships had on their relationship. He remarked that the challenges they faced instilled in Graham a unique drive that shaped his political ambition. McAlister emphasized that much of Graham’s character can be traced back to his responsibility towards Darline during their formative years.
During his campaigns, Lindsey often shared his personal story of raising Darline after their parents' deaths. In one notable 2014 campaign advertisement, she expressed her admiration for her brother’s integrity, stating, “He never let me down. Never. I don’t see how he did it, to take on the responsibility of raising a little sister. That came from within for Lindsey.”
In a remarkable turn of events, just hours before McMaster's announcement, President Donald Trump publicly recommended Nordone as an interim appointee. He described her selection as a “fabulous tribute to Lindsey, who loved her dearly!”
As Darline Graham Nordone steps into this new role, she carries not only the weight of her brother’s legacy but also the hope and support of a family that has been intertwined with South Carolina’s history and politics for decades.
