MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – A lively debate unfolded Tuesday night as four Republican contenders, all vying to step into the shoes of the late U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, took to a statewide televised stage to present their cases for leadership. Diverging on federal spending, foreign policy, trade, and the scope of government, the candidates found common ground on several conservative goals, yet unveiled distinct visions for the nation’s direction during the event hosted by News 2 and Nexstar stations.
The debate lineup in Mount Pleasant featured Congressmen Ralph Norman and Russell Fry, former Governor and Congressman Mark Sanford, and businessman Mark Lynch. Their appearances came as the countdown to the special Republican primary loomed, with the candidates striving to distinguish themselves ahead of next week’s voting.
Notably absent was Interim U.S. Senator Darline Graham, who was committed to pressing Senate business in Washington and thus unable to participate in the debate.
The dialogue frequently circled back to the economic challenges confronting South Carolinians, with candidates underscoring concerns over rising living expenses, the ballooning national debt, and the looming specter of economic instability.
When prompted on how they would carve a distinct path from Graham’s legacy, the candidates emphasized a recalibration towards domestic priorities and stricter fiscal management. Norman, Lynch, and Sanford took aim at Washington’s spending practices, highlighting the staggering nearly $39 trillion national debt as a pivotal issue. Meanwhile, Fry zeroed in on domestic economic pressures, vowing to address the burdens of housing costs and inflation that many families face.
The economy also fueled discussion over President Donald Trump’s tariff strategy. While all four candidates generally supported efforts to strengthen American manufacturing and improve trade relationships, Sanford offered the most cautionary note, warning South Carolina’s economy could be vulnerable because of its heavy reliance on foreign investment and international trade through facilities such as the South Carolina Port.
On Social Security, candidates agreed the program faces long-term challenges but differed on solutions. Sanford advocated for greater individual ownership through personal retirement-style accounts, while Fry pointed to fraud and mismanagement within the system. Norman and Lynch argued federal spending practices have contributed to the program’s financial strain.
Foreign policy emerged as another key dividing line.
Candidates generally agreed Iran should not obtain a nuclear weapon and voiced opposition to deploying U.S. ground troops. However, Sanford emphasized Congress’ constitutional role in authorizing military action, while Norman and Fry defended Trump’s recent actions targeting Iran’s nuclear program. Lynch argued America should reduce overseas involvement and focus resources on domestic concerns.
Immigration generated some of the night’s strongest consensus.
Norman and Fry endorsed mandatory use of the E-Verify employment verification system, saying it would help prevent undocumented immigrants from taking jobs intended for American workers. Sanford also backed the program, noting its origins during his time as governor. Lynch stopped short of fully endorsing a mandate but said employers should prioritize hiring American citizens.
Candidates also shared concerns about foreign ownership of American land and strategic assets. Fry and Norman specifically cited China as a national security threat, while Lynch declared “America is not for sale.” Sanford, while supporting foreign investment generally, argued the nation’s debt dependence on China poses a larger long-term risk.
As technology became part of the discussion, the candidates agreed artificial intelligence should be subject to some form of oversight. Fry, Norman and Sanford each called for guardrails to protect privacy and national security while maintaining U.S. competitiveness against China. Lynch broadened the conversation to privacy concerns involving surveillance technologies and data collection.
Another area of agreement came near the debate’s conclusion when candidates were asked whether they would support the eventual Republican nominee if they did not win the primary. All four pledged to back the GOP nominee in November.
The debate marked one of the final opportunities for Republican voters to compare the candidates side-by-side before voting begins.
Early voting starts Wednesday, Aug. 5, ahead of the Republican special primary scheduled for Aug. 11. The winner will advance to the November special election to fill the Senate seat left vacant following Graham’s death.