Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina died suddenly late Saturday. Graham was running for reelection in November and was set to face off against pediatrician and Democrat Annie Andrews. His death comes less than four months before the midterm elections, creating a situation that risks throwing the race into chaos.
Republican Governor Henry McMaster, who has the authority to name a replacement for the remainder of Graham's term, is set to hold a press conference to announce his appointment. While the governor is expected to fill the role quickly, the Senate faces new challenges following the vacancy.
A scramble for succession has already begun, with Republican Representative Nancy Mace and Governor McMaster among the first names floated for the seat. The US president has also suggested he is considering a potential candidate to fill the late senator's position.