In a surprising turn of events, Democrats secured an unexpected victory in the South Carolina Senate race, a region traditionally dominated by Republicans. This win enhances the Democrats' chances of regaining control of the Senate.
According to reports from AP and NBC on November 3, with 87% of the votes counted, Democratic candidate Annie Andrews garnered 50.99% of the vote, defeating incumbent Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who received 46.87%. Andrews led by approximately 4 percentage points.
As a result, Democrats reclaimed one of the two Senate seats held by Republicans in South Carolina.
South Carolina is a conservative stronghold, having seen President Donald Trump win by an 18-point margin in the 2024 election. This marks the first time since 1998 that a Republican has not secured a Senate seat in the state.
The race drew attention as it featured 45-year-old pediatrician Andrews against 62-year-old Graham. Notably, Graham was a candidate directly endorsed by Trump, making this loss a significant blow to the former president.
Additionally, Democrats previously reclaimed the Senate seat in North Carolina, further signaling a potential path to regaining control of the Senate.
To regain the Senate in this midterm election, Democrats need to gain four additional seats.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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