COLUMBIA, SC — The three invited candidates in South Carolina’s 2026 U.S. Senate race debated Sunday, October 11, in a forum hosted by South Carolina ETV and Public Radio. Republican Sen. Darline Graham, Democratic nominee Dr. Annie Andrews and Libertarian candidate Dr. Kasie Whitener discussed policy differences ahead of early voting, which begins October 19.
What the candidates discussed
Coverage of the SCETV debate described exchanges over health care, the economy, foreign affairs, artificial intelligence and the candidates’ public-service backgrounds.
Andrews questioned Graham’s qualifications and the extent of her agreement with President Donald Trump’s policies. Graham defended her record and questioned Andrews’ characterization of her positions. Whitener participated in the debate and presented the Libertarian perspective. Those campaign claims and characterizations are attributable to the candidates; they are not independently established judgments about qualifications or performance.
The host broadcaster announced in advance that the candidates would not receive debate questions or topic lists and that moderators would direct a structured question-and-rebuttal format. The debate was available through SCETV’s broadcast and digital platforms.
Early voting information
The South Carolina State Election Commission says early voting for the November 3 general election runs from Monday, October 19, through Saturday, October 31. Centers are scheduled to operate Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with no voting on Sunday, October 25. Voters may cast an early ballot at an early voting center in their own county and must satisfy the state’s voter-identification requirements.
Voters should confirm their registration, review their own sample ballot and check the official voting-center list through the commission’s website before traveling.
What happens next
The debate gives voters a record of the candidates’ public positions on multiple issues; it does not resolve contested campaign accusations. SNN will continue to distinguish what a candidate said from what public records establish.
Sources: South Carolina ETV debate announcement; South Carolina State Election Commission, 2026 early voting; FOX Carolina debate coverage.
