South Carolina Law Lets Governor Name Graham's Replacement Now
State law grants an interim pick because his death fell more than 100 days before the already-set November vote.
- Section 7-19-20 empowers the governor to appoint an interim senator immediately.
- The appointee holds the seat until January 3, 2027, when a winner is sworn in.
- November's already-scheduled election, not a new one, will now decide the full term.
Why it matters: A statute meant to prevent an empty seat now lets one governor decide who fills it.
South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 7, Ch. 19 (vacancy/special election law for US Senate) ↗ · Jul 12, 20267/12/26