Darline Graham, Sister of Late Senator, Sworn In to Complete His Term

Darline Graham was sworn in to the U.S. Senate on Monday, just three days after the death of her brother, the late South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, according to Enid News & Eagle. She becomes South Carolina's first female senator.
Darline Graham was appointed by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster to fill the seat, according to Union-Bulletin. She will serve out the remainder of Lindsey Graham's term.
Darline Graham's swearing-in makes history for South Carolina. She is the first woman to represent the state in the U.S. Senate. Her appointment came quickly — just three days after Sen. Lindsey Graham died, according to Enid News & Eagle.
Gov. Henry McMaster moved fast to fill the seat, according to Union-Bulletin. The appointment keeps the seat in familiar hands while the state prepares for an upcoming election to choose a permanent replacement.
Darline Graham is the sister of Lindsey Graham, who served as a South Carolina senator for more than two decades. Lindsey Graham was one of the most prominent Republican voices in the Senate. He was known for his work on foreign policy and his long tenure on the Armed Services Committee.
Darline Graham's role will be limited. She is filling the seat only until the term ends or a new senator is elected. WBAL reported her swearing-in marks a swift and formal transition of power in the Senate seat.
The appointment was reportedly made in part to secure the seat ahead of upcoming elections, according to Goshen News. Governors in most states have the power to appoint temporary replacements when a Senate seat becomes vacant.
South Carolina will need to hold an election to determine who permanently holds the seat. Until then, Darline Graham serves as the sitting senator, giving the state full representation in the chamber.
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