Graham and Andrews Clash in South Carolina Senate Debate

Republican Sen. Darline Graham, Democrat Annie Andrews and Libertarian Kasie Whitener debated in Columbia, South Carolina, on Sunday as candidates competed for a U.S. Senate seat that could elect the state’s first female senator. The debate focused on national security, the economy, immigration, artificial intelligence and President Donald Trump.

According to CNN, the race has become unexpectedly competitive in a traditionally Republican state, with Graham appointed to the Senate seat previously held by her late brother Lindsey Graham. NBC News reported that a Republican Senate super PAC pledged $5 million to support Graham’s campaign.

Andrews challenged Graham’s qualifications by referencing a previous debate remark on foreign policy. She said Graham’s earlier comment was a sign she lacked preparation.

"National security is not my thing." was cited by Annie Andrews, Democrat Senate candidate.

Andrews used the remark during the debate to criticize Graham’s readiness for a full Senate term.

"If your surgeon said that appendectomies aren’t really his thing, would you still hand him a scalpel? No," was said by Annie Andrews, Democrat Senate candidate.

"So why would we hand Darline Graham a full term in the US Senate? She is unserious and unqualified." was said by Annie Andrews, Democrat Senate candidate.

Graham defended her record and attacked Andrews over policy positions, including healthcare, immigration and her alignment with national Democrats.

"Let’s talk about what’s not your thing. Your thing, apparently, is not being honest with the people of South Carolina. At least I’m honest. If I don’t know something, I am glad to say it, and I’ll say it again tonight," was said by Darline Graham, Republican senator.

"But you are deceiving the people of South Carolina. You have flip-flopped on everything. There’s so many social media posts out there to prove different. Shame on you." was said by Darline Graham, Republican senator.

Andrews rejected Graham’s characterization that she represented the Democratic Party’s left wing and emphasized her own positions on several issues.

"She’s been told to come out here and call me Bernie Ocasio Mamdani; that’s what’s in her script," was said by Annie Andrews, Democrat Senate candidate.

"But the truth is: My name is Annie Andrews, and there shouldn’t be any confusion about that because, unlike my opponent, I haven’t changed my name recently." was said by Annie Andrews, Democrat Senate candidate.

Graham responded to criticism about her name choice after being appointed to the Senate seat, explaining her connection to her family name.

"My legal name is Graham and has always been Graham," was said by Darline Graham, Republican senator.

"And you know why it’s Graham? Because I lost my parents when I was a little girl, and I kept the name Graham so that I felt connected to them." was said by Darline Graham, Republican senator.

Andrews also discussed immigration and taxes while distancing herself from parts of her party’s platform.

"both parties have failed on immigration" was said by Annie Andrews, Democrat Senate candidate.

"Democrats have failed on the border." was said by Annie Andrews, Democrat Senate candidate.

"And the truth is, I support the Second Amendment. I believe we need a secure border, and we need to deport illegal immigrants who break the law, and yes, I want to lower taxes on the middle class." was said by Annie Andrews, Democrat Senate candidate.

The candidates also debated social media impacts on young people, with Whitener focusing on families and Andrews citing her experience as a pediatrician.

"I’m all for holding social media companies accountable." was said by Darline Graham, Republican senator.

"And our parents thinking about what are the right ways to keep their kids away from things like harmful social media sites." was said by Kasie Whitener, Libertarian candidate.

A voter attending a Horry County watch party said the debate helped clarify the candidates’ positions before the election.

"I feel like I’m more informed about the candidates that are running for the Senate race. And I’ll leave here tonight. I’m leaving here tonight knowing I’m going to vote for you." was said by a voter at the watch party.

Early voting in South Carolina was scheduled to run from October 19 to October 31, with the general election set for November 3.