MORNING HEADLINES | The surprising death of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham leaves a gaping hole in national and statewide politics — one that Gov. Henry McMaster now has to fill.
McMaster will appoint a new senator to serve out the remainder of Graham’s term in the U.S. Senate, which ends on Jan. 3. Whoever McMaster appoints will likely have a leg up in a special primary election Aug. 11 to fill Graham’s place on the November ballot, where Democratic challenger Annie Andrews awaits.
U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson has reportedly shown interest in the seat. Wilson boasts a long tenure in Congress, representing S.C.’s second congressional district since 2001.
Other reports suggest U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace is “strongly considering” running for the seat after a failed bid for the governor’s office this year. Mace has represented the state’s first congressional district since 2021.
“‘‘Just when I thought I was out… they pull me back in…’” she posted on X in a reference to The Godfather.
President Donald Trump said he had an idea of who he would like to replace Graham, but declined to name who he had in mind. Instead, he shared confidence in McMaster’s decision. McMaster has made no official statements on who he is considering for the office.
“At this time, our focus is on honoring Senator Graham’s life and service,” McMaster’s press secretary Michelle LeClair told CNBC. “Questions regarding the process for filling the vacancy will be addressed by the Governor’s Office when there are updates to share.”
McMaster is expected to name the replacement senator within days.
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Also in today’s headlines
Mount Pleasant looks at raising eligible income for affordable homes. If approved, the change would allow families making up to $176,000 to purchase town-subsidized homes, up from $94,000 now.
Charleston’s plan to move development out of flood-prone areas moving forward after delays. Mayor William Cogswell says he slowed down the rezoning effort to “figure out a balance to make sure we are encouraging development in high areas and severely discouraging — if not completely not allowing — development in lower areas.”
New charter school for at-risk students opening in North Charleston. A new public charter school designed to serve students at risk of not graduating is set to open in North Charleston in August 2026.
North Charleston looks at easing short term rental restrictions. Under the proposed language, existing STR licenses would be transferable to property purchasers, and current limits would be lifted in areas zoned for business.
South Carolina gas prices jump nearly 15 cents in a week as national average rises. Drivers across South Carolina are paying significantly more at the pump this week, with average gas prices rising nearly 15 cents per gallon over the last seven days.
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