Graham, Norman Clash in Only Scheduled Runoff Debate Ahead of Early Voting

NEWBERRY, S.C. (WIS) - Republican U.S. Senate candidates Darline Graham and Ralph Norman traded barbs and drew sharp contrasts during their only scheduled debate before next week’s special primary runoff election.

With early voting beginning Wednesday and runoff day less than a week away, the candidates sought to distinguish themselves before voters, despite finding common ground on some issues.

Both candidates expressed support for prosecuting former White House adviser Dr. Anthony Fauci and reducing the national debt. But the debate quickly turned confrontational.

Graham accused Norman of delaying passage of President Donald Trump’s so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” last year, arguing he had to be persuaded by Trump to support the measure.

“It’s my understanding that you were the holdout on the big beautiful bill and Trump had to call you in and convince you to sign it,” Graham said.

Norman defended his actions, saying his concerns centered on energy subsidies.

“He said, ‘What are you holding it up for?’ I said the subsidies for electric cars is dumb. The subsidies for solar and wind are stupid. I was cutting it out and we made it better. He agreed,” Norman said.

One of the most notable moments of the debate came during a discussion of foreign policy. Moderators asked whether tensions between China and Taiwan pose a threat to U.S. national security.

Graham said she was not well informed on national security issues.

“I’m just going to be honest here. I’m not that informed on national security, so ... but I do support our military,” she said.

Norman responded by arguing the United States should continue supporting Taiwan’s ability to defend itself.

“What the president is doing right is he’s enabling Taiwan to defend themselves against China, but it’s peace through strength that he’s showing,” Norman said.

After the debate, Graham elaborated on her comments in the spin room, acknowledging foreign policy is not her strongest area while adding that she recognizes China as a national security threat.

She said her campaign remains focused on economic concerns facing South Carolinians.

“You know, I’ve said to many, what’s important to the people of South Carolina? They’re worried about their pocketbooks more than they’re worried about the South China Sea, quite honestly. So that’s going to be my biggest focus,” Graham said.

Norman praised Graham personally, calling her a supportive sister to Sen. Lindsey Graham during a difficult period for the family. However, he argued that candidates seeking a Senate seat must be prepared to address a broad range of issues, including foreign policy.

“By her choice, she’s running for the United States Senate. It’s a six-year term. You need to get fully versed in what issues you’re going to be dealing with. This isn’t a get-trained-on-the-job,” Norman said.

Early voting for the Republican U.S. Senate primary runoff runs through the remainder of the week. Election Day is Tuesday, Aug. 25.

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