New Poll Shows Graham Leading Andrews in Senate Race
A recent survey indicates Darline Graham holds a narrow lead over Annie Andrews in South Carolina.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Elections
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A Trafalgar Group poll released following a survey of 1,087 respondents shows Darline Graham leading Annie Andrews 43.4 percent to 42.3 percent. This recent data highlights a tight contest in the South Carolina Senate race.
Why it matters
The poll results underscore the competitive nature of the election as candidates prepare for an upcoming debate and the start of early voting. Senate Democrats are also pressuring for a special session to address concerns regarding the rising costs of housing, groceries, utilities, and healthcare.
The Trafalgar Group poll sampled 1,087 voters between September 23 and September 25 with a margin of error of 2.9 percent. The Andrews campaign reported spending over $1.6 million on media production and advertising as of June 30.
The players
Darline Graham
She serves as a senator in South Carolina following the vacancy created by the death of Lindsay Graham.
Annie Andrews
She is a candidate for the United States Senate in South Carolina who has launched a significant media advertising campaign.
The details
Senator Darline Graham continues to manage her campaign while fulfilling her duties in Washington D.C. after taking office following the death of Lindsay Graham in July 2026. Challenger Annie Andrews has been actively traveling the state and debuted her first general election television ad on August 26.
Timeline
July 2026: Lindsay Graham died.
September 23 - 25, 2026: The Trafalgar Group conducted the poll.
October 11, 2026: A debate between candidates is scheduled in Columbia.
October 15, 2026: The quarterly campaign finance report deadline occurs.
October 19, 2026: Early voting begins in South Carolina.
Political Context
The current election cycle is defined by the vacancy left following the death of Lindsay Graham in July 2026. This sudden transition forced an accelerated campaign schedule for both major party candidates.
Voters will soon have the opportunity to participate in early voting starting October 19, 2026, which may influence their daily routines. The ongoing political debates regarding the cost of living remain a central focus for citizens concerned about household expenses.
The takeaway
With a margin of error nearly equal to the lead, the race remains highly competitive for South Carolina voters. Residents should monitor the upcoming debate on October 11 to better evaluate the candidates' stances on rising living costs.
What happens next
Candidates Graham, Andrews, and Whitener are set to participate in a debate on October 11, 2026, followed by the submission of quarterly campaign finance reports on October 15 and the start of early voting on October 19.
Further reading
For more information on the upcoming vote, visit the Elections section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WACH.
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