Former President Donald Trump campaigned for congressional candidate Darline Graham in South Carolina on Friday, according to The Washington Post. The rally in Myrtle Beach marked a test of Trump's political influence ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Trump used the event to deliver a new message to Republican voters, urging them to treat the upcoming elections as if he himself were on the ballot, multiple outlets reported. The New York Times, CNN, and NBC News all covered the former president's plea, with Trump reportedly asking supporters to "pretend" he was running in the race.
The Washington Post framed the appearance as a high-stakes moment for Trump, noting that his political capital is on the line with the Graham campaign. A win for Graham would signal that Trump's endorsement still carries significant weight among GOP primary voters, while a loss could raise questions about his sway within the party.
During the rally, a protester interrupted the proceedings, according to Fox News. Trump responded to the disruption, telling the crowd that "mom is voting for us," a remark that drew a reaction from attendees.
The South Carolina race is one of several contests this cycle where Trump has inserted himself directly, seeking to shape the Republican field. His strategy of framing the midterms as a referendum on his own political standing appears aimed at boosting turnout among his base.
What to watch next: Whether Graham's performance in the primary will be seen as a measure of Trump's enduring influence within the GOP.
