Representative Ralph Norman of South Carolina announced Saturday that he will run for the U.S. Senate following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham.
Norman confirmed his candidacy during a weekend broadcast, stating he would be "laser-focused" on advancing a conservative legislative agenda from the first day of a potential term.
He voiced strong support for eliminating the Senate filibuster, describing the procedural tool as an obstacle that Republicans should remove to advance priority legislation.
The announcement comes days after President Donald Trump endorsed Darline Graham, the late senator’s sister, to seek the seat when her appointed term ends in January.
Norman acknowledged the president’s backing of Darline Graham but said he had sought Trump’s blessing and intends to proceed with his own campaign.
He is entering the Aug. 11 special Republican primary and said he is in the process of filing the required paperwork to appear on the ballot.
Although not endorsed by Trump, Norman has secured backing from Senators Mike Lee of Utah and Rick Scott of Florida, both of whom also oppose the filibuster.
The primary is expected to be competitive, with at least two other candidates already declaring bids and additional challengers likely to join.
Businessman Mark Lynch, who previously ran against Graham in the June primary, and attorney Duke Buckner have both entered the race.
Speculation has also emerged around the House seat Norman currently holds, as state lawmakers monitor whether Representative Russell Fry might enter the Senate contest.
