Lindsey Graham's younger sister, Darline Graham, was sworn in to fill his vacant U.S. Senate seat on Wednesday, just three days after his unexpected death. She will serve out the remainder of his term, which concludes in January.

Darline Graham, a retired educator, accepted the appointment with the understanding that she would not seek election to the seat herself. The decision to appoint her was made by the governor, who sought to honor the legacy of his late colleague and ensure continuity in representation for the state.

Her swearing-in ceremony was brief and solemn, attended by family and close friends. The move ensures that the state continues to have representation in the Senate without a special election before the end of the current term.