Lindsey Graham’s sudden death sends shockwaves through Congress as politicians mourn and mull his replacement – as it happened

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Under South Carolina state law, governor Henry McMaster may appoint a temporary replacement to fill Graham's now-vacant seat. As Graham was up for re-election this year and won the GOP primary last month, there is also now a vacancy in the Republican nomination for his seat.

After McMaster appoints a replacement, state law requires a special primary for voters to select a new nominee within weeks of a vacancy. The general election winner will take office in January, beginning a full six-year term.