Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Tuesday shut down speculation that he might seek the Senate seat left vacant by the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), telling the Washington Examiner there is absolutely no chance he will run.
"There's going to be a primary in South Carolina, and I will not be in it," Bessent said in an interview. "I have the best job in Washington."
Bessent, a South Carolina native, had been floated as a potential candidate after Graham died Saturday at age 71 from complications of an aortic dissection. Graham had easily won his June primary and was set to face Democratic pediatrician Annie Andrews in November.
The Treasury secretary paid tribute to Graham following his death, writing on X: "It was an honor to call him my friend. And work with him to advance President Trump's agenda at home and on the international stage." He described Graham as "a one-of-a-kind politician who could speak at length on both global defense policy and South Carolina kitchen table issues."
Gov. Henry McMaster (R) appointed Graham's younger sister, Darline Graham Nordone, to serve out the remainder of his term. She was sworn in Tuesday afternoon. Bessent praised the move, saying: "As a South Carolina native, I can think of no more fitting tribute to Lindsey Graham's legacy of service to our state and our nation than seeing his beloved sister carry it forward." He added that the Treasury Department would support Nordone and her staff as they work on the president's agenda.
The decision to appoint Nordone came amid swirling speculation about who might replace the staunch war hawk on the ballot. Bessent was just one of several names mentioned. A special primary is set for Aug. 11, with a potential runoff on Aug. 25 if needed.
Andrews, Graham's Democratic challenger, also issued a statement expressing condolences. "My deepest condolences are with the family of Senator Lindsey Graham, his friends, his devoted staff, and all who are grieving this sudden and tremendous loss," she wrote. She praised Graham's 23 years in the Senate and his service in the U.S. Air Force, adding: "I hope that South Carolinians will join me in setting partisanship aside and offering gratitude."
Bessent's unequivocal rejection of a Senate run underscores his commitment to his current role, where he has been a key architect of the Trump administration's economic and trade policies. His decision leaves the field open for other contenders in the GOP primary.
The contest to replace Graham will be closely watched, as his death reshapes the political landscape in South Carolina and beyond. For more on the implications of Graham's passing, see our analysis of how it affects foreign policy. Meanwhile, Nordone's swearing-in marks the beginning of a temporary tenure that could influence the dynamics of the upcoming primary.
