Nikki Haley Rules Out Senate Bid To Replace Lindsey Graham

WASHINGTON, DC-Former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley will not run in the special election to replace Senator Lindsey Graham, her spokesperson said on July 12, ending early speculation about the prominent Indian American Republican’s political plans.

“While she has been blessed to serve her state and country as Governor, UN Ambassador, and as a candidate for President, she has no plans to run for office at this time,” the spokesperson said.

Haley’s name had emerged among several Republicans who could contest the seat after Graham’s sudden death on July 11. Inside Elections had listed her as a potential candidate alongside US Representatives Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and businessman Mark Lynch.

Haley had earlier paid tribute to Graham without addressing the succession contest.

“Lindsey loved South Carolina deeply. There was never a day he stopped fighting for the people of our state,” she said, adding that Graham “gave his all to protect America and our freedom-loving allies.”

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, a Republican, can appoint an interim senator to serve until Graham’s term expires in January. His office has not said whom he is considering or when an appointment will be announced.

President Donald Trump told NBC News that he already had a preferred candidate but declined to reveal the person’s identity, saying it was too soon after Graham’s death.

Under South Carolina law, the filing period for candidates will open on July 21 and close on July 28. A special Republican primary is scheduled for August 11, followed by an August 25 runoff if no candidate receives a majority.

The Republican nominee will face Democrat Annie Andrews in the November election.

Haley served as South Carolina’s governor from 2011 to 2017, becoming the first woman and first Indian American to lead the state before Trump appointed her US ambassador to the United Nations.

She later challenged Trump for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination and was his last major rival to withdraw. Haley has remained active in Republican politics and foreign policy debates but has not announced plans to seek another elected office. (IANS)