On July 14, 2026, President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) swore Sen. Darline Graham (R-S.C.) into the U.S. Senate, filling the vacancy in South Carolina's class II seat.
The vacancy began on July 11, 2026, following the death of Lindsey Graham (R), Darline Graham's brother. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster (R) appointed Darline Graham to represent the state in the U.S. Senate on July 13, 2026. She is the first woman to represent South Carolina in the U.S. Senate and the first sibling to be appointed to succeed a U.S. senator.
As of July 14, 2026, Republicans have a 53 to 45 majority in the U.S. Senate. Additionally, both independent members of the chamber caucus with Democrats.
