President Trump is set to headline a rally with Senate candidate Darline Graham in South Carolina on Wednesday evening, part of a final sprint to energize Republican voters ahead of the midterms. The event, scheduled for 7 p.m. EDT, underscores the party's reliance on Trump's appeal to its base even as the president's approval ratings remain underwater.
Graham faces unexpected challenge
Darline Graham, a political newcomer whom Trump personally endorsed to succeed her brother, longtime Sen. Lindsey Graham, is favored to win the race. But her campaign has encountered a surprisingly strong challenge from Democrat Annie Andrews, a pediatrician. The Cook Political Report on Tuesday shifted its rating of the contest from “likely Republican” to “lean Republican,” signaling that the GOP's hold on the seat is less secure than initially assumed.
The rally comes as Republicans confront the possibility of losing control of both chambers of Congress. Trump has a packed schedule of campaign events this week, with stops in multiple states, as the party scrambles to counter Democratic momentum on issues ranging from the economy to abortion.
Despite his polarizing standing with the broader electorate, Republican strategists are betting that Trump can still drive turnout among the party's core supporters. The president's appearances are seen as critical in competitive districts and states, even as some GOP candidates have sought to keep their distance from him.
A rare break with Trump
Graham has signaled a rare divergence from the president in recent days, expressing disagreement with his decision to waive sanctions on Russia under a law named after her late brother, the late Sen. Lindsey Graham. The move has drawn bipartisan criticism, including from within the GOP, and has become a flashpoint in the campaign.
The sanctions waiver, which Trump linked to the release of an American detainee, has fueled broader concerns about the administration's approach to Moscow. Graham's public stance on the issue may be an attempt to moderate her image in a state where Trump remains popular but where some voters are uneasy about his foreign policy decisions.
Wednesday's rally is expected to focus on turning out the base, with Trump likely to tout his record on the economy, border security, and judicial appointments. He may also take aim at Democrats' legislative agenda, including the Inflation Reduction Act and student loan forgiveness, which have become key GOP attack lines.
For Graham, the event offers a chance to lock down support from Trump loyalists while also appealing to independents who may be swayed by her independence on certain issues. The race is being closely watched as a bellwether for the national political environment, with Democrats hoping that a strong showing here could signal broader gains.
The rally also comes amid a flurry of activity on the campaign trail, with Trump heading to Ohio for another rally as GOP races tighten across the country. Meanwhile, former President Obama is stumping for Democrats in Georgia, highlighting the high stakes of the midterms.
Graham's break with Trump on the Russia sanctions issue has drawn attention, with some Republicans warning that such moves could complicate the party's messaging. Sen. Stewart has slammed Trump's sanctions flip as a midterm headache, reflecting internal GOP divisions.
As the rally gets underway, all eyes will be on the crowd's enthusiasm and the strength of Trump's endorsement in a race that has become more competitive than expected. The outcome could offer clues about the GOP's ability to hold onto seats in the South, where demographic shifts have made some contests increasingly tight.
