A new New York Times/Siena College poll has identified a surprising dead heat in the South Carolina U.S. Senate race, with Democratic challenger Annie Andrews and Republican incumbent Sen. Darline Graham tied at 48% each. The findings suggest a highly competitive contest in a state that has not elected a Democrat to the Senate in the 21st century.
A Shift in the Palmetto State
The race was reshaped this summer following the death of longtime incumbent Sen. Lindsey Graham. Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Darline Graham to serve the remainder of her brother’s term, and she subsequently secured the Republican nomination with the backing of President Donald Trump. Despite the state’s deep-red history—where Trump won by 18 points in 2024—the incumbent has faced scrutiny regarding her experience, with 51% of voters telling pollsters she lacks the qualifications for the role.
Andrews, a pediatrician, has gained momentum by capturing 57% of independent voters and peeling away 7% of the Republican base. While voters expressed more confidence in Andrews’ ability to handle the economy and cost of living, Graham continues to benefit from high name recognition tied to her late brother’s political legacy.
With Election Day set for November 3, the candidates are also competing against Libertarian nominee Kasie Whitener and Constitution Party candidate Mark Hackett. The poll, which surveyed 707 voters between October 19 and October 26, highlights a tightening political landscape that has forced Republicans to dedicate significant resources to a state typically considered a safe stronghold.
