Some voters who backed President Donald Trump in 2024 are delivering a harsh verdict on Sen. Darline Graham (R-SC) — and questioning her loyalty to the party as the critical midterm elections approach.
In focus groups conducted by The Bulwark, disaffected Trump voters criticized Graham’s experience and family connections, while some expressed openness to Democratic challenger Annie Andrews.
“She just seems like she’s out of her depth,” said Justin, 45, of Taylors. “She’s just wandered into something that she doesn’t fully understand and, I don’t know, she just doesn’t inspire confidence.”
Others aimed their frustration beyond Graham.
“This is the first time in my life I’ve ever considered voting Democrat, because I don’t like what this party has done, and I don’t like the MAGA movement per se,” said Tracy, 66, of Fort Mill.
Graham’s relationship to her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham, offered little reassurance to Justin, who described him as a “warmonger” and said he wasn’t interested in another six years of similar policies.
Renee, another South Carolina Trump voter, took aim at the senator’s qualifications.
“I don’t think she has the experience,” she said. “What has she done?”
Andrews’ medical background and health care priorities resonated with some participants.
“People are hurting and we can’t continue in this manner,” Tracy said.
The groups consisted of disaffected Trump voters, rather than a representative sample. Some still planned to support Graham, albeit unenthusiastically.
Another Palmetto State voter, Brittany, described her choice as “very much” a “lesser-of-two-evils.”