South Carolina Senate Race Shows GOP Division Amid Trump Influence

A South Carolina GOP operative said Trump's influence is effective among key voters, but data shows Graham faces challenges in securing Republican support. The New York Times/Siena poll found that only 80% of Republicans back Graham, compared to 97% of Democrats supporting Andrews.

Norman, a South Carolina Republican, has said he plans to vote for Graham but has not campaigned with her. He declined an invitation to join her campaign trail and refused to name her when asked who he supports, instead stating he supports the Republican candidate.

Norman also questioned Graham's political positions, asking, 'What position does she have other than she likes Donald Trump?' A write-in campaign for Norman is underway, but he says he is not involved.

Graham's biggest vulnerability is her unclear stance and lack of defined positions. She admitted being 'not that informed on national security' during a debate, which has shaken voter confidence. A South Carolina GOP official said her debate performance hurt her significantly, leaving voters unsure of who they are electing.

Polls show 26% of likely voters are supporting Andrews due to negative views of Graham's character or competence, with 48% of that group being Republicans.

Graham's supporters attribute the low support to her limited time to introduce herself to voters, as her brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham, died just three months ago.

Norman suggested Trump's actions speak louder than projected optimism and spin. He asked if Trump would have returned to South Carolina a second time if Graham's campaign wasn't in trouble, implying the president's presence signals a potential loss for Graham.