South Carolina GOP runoff puts Trump’s clout on the line
Why it matters: Another setback for Trump-backed candidates could weaken his grip on Republican primaries ahead of November.
President Donald Trump’s endorsement power faces a fresh test Tuesday in South Carolina, where Sen. Darline Graham and Rep. Ralph Norman meet in a Republican primary runoff. The winner will advance to a November general election to seek a full six-year Senate term tied to the seat long held by Lindsey Graham before his death. Trump has campaigned aggressively for Darline Graham, traveling to Myrtle Beach last week and holding a tele-rally Monday. The race comes as recent losses have raised questions about how much sway Trump still holds as the Republican Party’s dominant figure and chief primary kingmaker.