There has been speculation about whether I will seek to replace Senator Lindsey Graham on the ballot this November. My focus today is not on politics. It is on mourning the loss of my friend and celebrating the life of one of South Carolina's greatest public servants. Unfortunately, the speculation has reached a point where I owe the people of South Carolina a straightforward explanation. Unless the South Carolina General Assembly changes state law, any current member of Congress already on the ballot for reelection who is elected to replace Senator Graham would leave their House seat vacant on January 3, 2027. I have told Speaker Johnson that I will not do anything that increases the number of votes he must secure to be reelected Speaker in January. At a time when every seat matters, protecting our Republican majority is more important than any individual's political future. It is the only way we can continue delivering President Trump's agenda for the American people. I also want to say this plainly: I cannot support Ralph Norman or Nancy Mace as Senator Lindsey Graham's successor. This is not personal. It is about what South Carolina deserves. Senator Graham's seat should not simply be filled. His legacy should be honored.
