Former South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Andre Bauer has launched a Senate bid against long-time GOP Senator Lindsey Graham in the state’s 2026 Republican primary, positioning himself as a contender to challenge Graham’s re-election bid. Bauer, a prominent Trump supporter and MAGA-aligned candidate, has criticized Graham’s record on immigration and foreign policy, accusing him of favoring global interests over the needs of South Carolinians.
Bauer, who previously ran for governor in 2010 and for Congress in 2012, is running on a platform that emphasizes America First principles and a commitment to Trump’s policies. His campaign highlights his longstanding support for the former president, including his presence at key Trump events and his endorsement of Trump’s leadership team in the state. Graham, who has been a close ally of Trump since the beginning of his presidency, is currently seeking a fifth six-year term in the Senate.
Both candidates have significant backing within the Republican Party, with Graham having received support from Trump and key advisors. However, Bauer’s campaign is positioning itself as a more conservative alternative, emphasizing his opposition to Graham’s more moderate stances on issues like illegal immigration and climate change. Graham’s re-election campaign has already responded to Bauer’s challenge, attacking his credibility as a candidate and accusing him of attempting to leverage his connections to the White House.
As the race in South Carolina continues, the contest is expected to have significant implications for the Republican Party’s strategy and the broader political landscape in the upcoming 2026 general election. The winner of the primary will be viewed as a clear frontrunner for the Senate race, underscoring the importance of this contest in shaping the future of the Republican Party and its direction on key policy issues.