South Carolina Republicans are fracturing after a stunning defeat for Darline Graham, a novice candidate whose campaign drew intense scrutiny from within her own party.
Some Republicans blamed President Trump for backing her candidacy following the death of her brother, Lindsey Graham. Their criticism centered on whether the endorsement had been the decisive factor in lifting a candidate with little political experience into contention.
Others directed their anger at Mr. Graham's team, accusing advisers of pushing her to run despite her lack of experience. For these critics, the decision to enter the race reflected poor judgment about whether she was ready for the demands of a statewide campaign.
The result has exposed deep divisions within the state's Republican Party at a moment when unity would be seen as essential. Party members are now debating who bears responsibility for the outcome and what the loss signals about the direction of South Carolina Republican politics.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing