Nikki Haley Rules Out Run for Lindsey Graham’s Senate Seat
Washington — Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley will not run in the special election to replace the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, her spokesperson said, ending early speculation about the Indian American Republican’s political plans.
“While she has been blessed to serve her state and country as Governor, UN Ambassador, and as a candidate for President, she has no plans to run for office at this time,” the spokesperson said.
Haley was among several Republicans mentioned as possible candidates after Graham’s sudden death Saturday. Other potential contenders include Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and businessman Mark Lynch.
Haley earlier paid tribute to Graham without addressing the contest to replace him.
“Lindsey loved South Carolina deeply. There was never a day he stopped fighting for the people of our state,” she said.
“Through his military service and years in public office, he gave his all to protect America and our freedom-loving allies. He was truly one of a kind.”
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, a Republican, can appoint an interim senator to serve until Graham’s term expires in January. His office has not said who is under consideration or when an appointment will be announced.
“At this time, our focus is on honoring Senator Graham’s life and service,” a McMaster spokesperson told CNN. “Questions regarding the process for filling the vacancy will be addressed by the Governor’s Office when there are updates to share.”
President Donald Trump told NBC News that he had a preferred candidate but declined to identify the person.
“I have somebody that I think would be great, but I don’t want to say it now because it’s too soon with Lindsey,” Trump said.
“I don’t want to even talk about anybody, but I do have somebody that I think is really good.”
The candidate filing period is scheduled to run from July 21 through July 28. A Republican primary will be held Aug. 11, followed by an Aug. 25 runoff if no candidate receives a majority.
The Republican nominee will face Democrat Annie Andrews in the November election. Inside Elections has rated the race “Likely Republican.”
Mace told CNN that “there will be time to decide” whether she will run, while Norman said he had not made a decision. Evette has reportedly received calls encouraging her to enter the race.
Haley served as South Carolina’s governor from 2011 to 2017, becoming the first woman and first Indian American to lead the state. She later served as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and challenged Trump for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. (Source: IANS)
