South Carolina Senate: Poll shows dead heat despite $20 million GOP spending
Democratic nominee Dr. Annie Andrews leads among key demographics in a New York Times/Siena College survey released Oct. 28, days before President Trump’s scheduled rally.
By Justin Brooks ·
47 percent of South Carolina voters say they lean Democrat in the U.S. Senate race, according to a New York Times/Siena College poll published Oct. 28. That number tops the 35 percent who lean Republican, with 18 percent undecided.
The race has turned into a virtual dead heat in a state that Republicans expected to be a solid red stronghold. Senator Darline Graham, who was appointed to the seat over the summer after her brother Sen. Lindsey Graham died unexpectedly, is now facing a stiff challenge. The General Election takes place on Nov. 3.
Three key findings define the current political battle. First, Dr. Annie Andrews, the Democratic nominee, has steadily gained ground over the last six weeks. She holds a strong base in southeast South Carolina and in Charleston, where her campaign operates. Graham maintains her strongest support in the Upstate and the Rock Hill region.
Second, demographic splits favor Andrews. The poll shows she leads among voters ages 18 to 29 and among women by wide margins. Graham leads the male vote by 15 percent. The voting population in the state is nearly evenly split by party affiliation, with 38 percent identifying as Republicans, 30 percent as Independents, and 27 percent as Democrats.
Third, President Donald Trump’s involvement has not shifted the momentum. The GOP has spent $20 million on this specific race as of mid-October. Trump is traveling to South Carolina for the third time since August to campaign for Graham. Despite his endorsement, 46 percent of poll respondents strongly disapprove of his handling of duties as commander in chief.
Trump is scheduled to speak at the Rock Hill Sports and Event Center at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. He will share the stage with Graham and other prominent Republican speakers. The rally serves as the final major event before the Nov. 3 election, aiming to push Graham over the finish line in a contest that defied initial expectations of an easy Republican victory.
Source: WBTV
