Charleston pediatrician defeats Republican Darline Graham
Democrat Annie Andrews in Charleston, SC on September 30, 2026 (Photos by Sean Rayford for the New York Times)
In South Carolina, Democrat Annie Andrews defeated Republican incumbent Sen. Darline Graham for an upset win in the U.S. Senate on Tuesday night, as reported by The Associated Press. Andrews will be the first South Carolina Democratic U.S. Senator since Fritz Hollings (1998-2005).
Taking the stage as Dolly Parton’s “9-5” blasted on the speakers during an election night party in Charleston, Andrews proclaimed, “I think we just made some history.”
“South Carolina. You have shown the nation what is possible,” said Andrews, “You have shown the nation that in this era, of partisan divides, of vitriol and name calling, in politics dominated by billionaires and special interest groups and insiders in Washington, D.C., that we will not bow down.”
Her opponent is the sister of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham and hand-picked by President Donald Trump.
“I promise you, I'm gonna give you everything I have to make sure we get there. To build a South Carolina, you can afford a South Carolina, you can always be proud to call home. in South Carolina that will always come first. So thank you for believing in me.
Thank you for making history with me tonight. And most importantly, we had to move this part to the end, so I wouldn't be a blubbering idiot up here. Most importantly, thank you to my family.
To my parents, who have stood by me every step of the way. And to my, to my three children. Thank you for every hug. Every word of encouragement. I love you more. I love you more than words, Henry, than words will ever express. I'm so proud of you guys.
And being your mom will always be the most important job I have. And I hope that when you look back on this moment, all three of you, I hope that you remember something. that you can stand up for what you believe in. That you can speak out when something isn't right. And no matter how big the challenge, you should never be afraid to try to make things better. Because you never know what's possible if you're willing to try. So, Carolina, I love you. Thank you. And good night,” said Andrews.
Columbia, SC Events in November