September 13, 2023 03:11 PM
Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) is mulling a primary challenge against Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) when he comes up for reelection in 2026, he told the Washington Examiner.
Norman, a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, differs from the South Carolina senator on several matters dividing the GOP, including aid for Ukraine. While Graham and Norman are allies of former President Donald Trump, the former has faced ire from the base over some of his centrist stances.
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Speaking to the Washington Examiner late Tuesday, Norman said he has “always considered” challenging Graham for his seat and is debating a 2026 bid because he believes “South Carolina needs more conservative leadership.”
Should Norman decide to announce his candidacy, he’ll be the latest populist to go up against Graham, who has faced primary challengers in each of his reelection campaigns and came out on top every time.
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Still, Norman could be Graham’s toughest opponent, especially given that his prior challengers were local officials with little name recognition.
A Graham spokesman did not respond to the Washington Examiner’s request for comment.