Trump Treasury Secretary Reportedly 'Fielding Calls' To Run For Lindsey Graham's Seat

Source: MEDIAite

Jul 12th, 2026, 6:02 pm


Trump Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is said to be “fielding calls” from power brokers urging him to run for the Senate seat held by the late Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC). Politico reported Sunday that Bessent is a South Carolina native, “who has maintained a house there during his time in Washington.”

Bessent was “fielding calls from people asking him to run, according to a person familiar with the communications,” the report said. “Another person close to Bessent said his interest is staying on as Treasury secretary, a role he’s long wanted.” Politico added, “A Treasury spokesperson had no immediate comment.”

Since word of Graham’s death broke early Sunday morning, Republicans have been scrambling over how to keep his Senate seat. President Donald Trump told NBC News he had “someone in mind” for Graham seat, but didn’t elaborate.

Outgoing Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) told CNN that she was “not pursuing” an interim appointment that could be made by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster (R). “I told the governor this morning that, I suggested that he should nominate himself,” Mace told Fredericka Whitfield. “He can do that, to be a sort of caretaker in between now and January 3rd. And then there would be a special election,” Mace said.

Read more: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/trump-treasury-secretary-reportedly-fielding-calls-to-run-for-lindsey-grahams-seat/