Republican voters in Newberry and across South Carolina saw the sole debate between Senator Darline Graham and Congressman Ralph Norman this past Tuesday, August 25, ahead of the special runoff primary for a U.S. Senate seat. The candidates used their hour at the historic Newberry Opera House to highlight their differing stances on various issues, including entitlement programs and federal spending.
Topics discussed during the debate included healthcare, national security, artificial intelligence, immigration, and federal spending. Graham began by sharing her personal childhood story, connecting it to economic challenges faced by South Carolinians. Norman, in contrast, emphasized his political resume and experience as qualifications for the Senate role.
Graham, described as a political newcomer, faced a question regarding the U.S. national security interest in Taiwan and the South China Sea. She acknowledged a lack of expertise in this area, stating that national security was not her primary focus. Norman criticized this response, suggesting it indicated she was unqualified for a six-year Senate term, emphasizing the need for a senator to be fully versed in such issues before taking office.
Later, Graham addressed her debate performance, noting that voters she spoke with appreciated her honesty about her foreign policy knowledge. She described herself as not a career politician and said she was simply being honest, which she considered a foreign concept in politics. Taiwan is frequently a point of contention with China, and the U.S. maintains a policy of strategic ambiguity regarding military defense while supporting the island’s defense capabilities.
The candidates also diverged on Social Security and Medicare. Graham expressed support for these programs for the elderly and families, while Norman advocated for changes to them. On immigration and foreign policy, both candidates voiced opposition to illegal immigration and raised concerns about China’s influence on American security. Graham frequently supported President Trump’s decisions, whereas Norman stated he was not running to align with Washington’s existing agenda. The debate included heated exchanges in its final minutes.
Early voting for the runoff took place on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. This special primary runoff marks the fourth time Republican voters have gone to the polls this year. Voters who participated in the June Democratic primary are ineligible to vote in this Republican runoff. However, those who voted in the June Republican primary or did not vote in either primary are eligible. Voters are advised to bring a photo ID and confirm their polling location before heading to the polls.
