The Hill is hosting live coverage of Nexstar Media Group's exclusive Senate primary debate in South Carolina on Tuesday evening, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. EDT. The event brings together the four Republicans competing to fill the seat left vacant by the late Sen. Lindsey Graham.
Moderating the debate are Carolyn Murray from News 2 and Alicia Barnes of Queen City News. The candidates on stage include Reps. Ralph Norman and Russell Fry, former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford, and businessman Mark Lynch.
The debate is a critical moment in a primary that has drawn national attention, as the GOP field in South Carolina reflects broader intraparty divisions. Norman, a conservative stalwart, has emphasized fiscal discipline and military strength, while Fry has positioned himself as a Trump-aligned outsider. Sanford, who previously served as governor and in Congress, is seeking a political comeback after a turbulent tenure, and Lynch is running as a business-focused candidate.
As the candidates clash over issues like border security, inflation, and foreign policy, the debate offers voters a chance to compare their records and visions. The outcome of the primary could have implications for the Senate's balance of power, as Republicans look to expand their majority.
The Hill's coverage is anchored by NewsNation's Washington Correspondent Cory Smith, with contributions from Blake Burman, anchor of The Hill on NewsNation, and the site's campaign team, including Caroline Vakil and Julia Mueller. NewsNation political contributor Mick Mulvaney, a former South Carolina congressman, also lends his insights.
Viewers can watch the full debate live via the video player above. It will also be simulcast on TheHill.com, The Hill TV's FAST channel, and The Hill's YouTube page. For those tracking other primary races, our live primary night coverage provides updates across multiple states.
The debate comes as South Carolina's political landscape shifts, with recent developments such as the new senator's stance on the filibuster drawing attention. Candidates are expected to address their positions on key legislative tactics and governance issues.
Key Issues and Stakes
Each candidate brings a distinct platform to the debate. Norman has called for cutting federal spending and strengthening the military, while Fry has focused on immigration enforcement and election integrity. Sanford, known for his fiscal conservatism and criticism of Trump, is pitching himself as an experienced voice willing to buck party lines. Lynch emphasizes his business background as a solution to government inefficiency.
The primary is also a test of Trump's influence in the state, as Fry has aligned himself with the former president, while Sanford has been openly critical. The debate could reshape the race with only weeks until the primary.
Political analysts note that the winner will face a Democratic challenger in the general election, but the GOP nominee is heavily favored in the conservative state. Nevertheless, the primary outcome will signal the direction of the state party.
For more on the broader primary landscape, see our report on Michigan's Senate nominee and the SC GOP debate. Additionally, Kansas's GOP primary is another key race to watch this cycle.
