Andrews breaks Democratic drought in South Carolina Senate
Pediatrician Annie Andrews won South Carolina's Senate race. She is the first Democrat elected since 1998.
Pediatrician Annie Andrews won South Carolina's Senate race by defeating Darline Graham. Andrews is the first Democrat to represent the state since 1998.
Andrews campaigned on healthcare affordability in the traditionally Republican state. Graham is the sister of the late Senator Lindsey Graham.
She was appointed to finish his term after he died in July. She was backed by Donald Trump.
Graham admitted she lacked national political experience. During a debate, she said she was 'not that informed on national security.'
This made the race more competitive than expected. Andrews' victory marks the first time South Carolina has elected a woman to the Senate.
This came nearly a century after the first female US senator took office in 1932.
Why it mattersA Democrat won in a traditionally Republican state. Senate control in the state has been largely settled.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but major US political shifts shape trade negotiations, climate commitments, and international partnerships Australia depends on.
Corroborated bynpr.org
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 4 h ago
