South Carolina Senate primary election 2026 live updates: South Carolina is set for a closely watched special Republican primary on Tuesday to choose the party’s candidate for the US Senate seat left vacant by the death of Lindsey Graham. Why is South Carolina holding a special Republican primary? Lindsey Graham, who had won the Republican primary for renomination on June 9, died unexpectedly on July 11 after suffering an aortic tear. 08:35 (IST) 11 Aug 2026 Why is South Carolina holding a special Republican primary? The special primary is being held after Lindsey Graham died unexpectedly on July 11 following an aortic tear.