A recent Emerson College Polling/Nexstar Media survey indicates that Ralph Norman leads with 22% support among likely GOP primary voters in South Carolina, followed by Darline Graham at 19%, Russell Fry at 12%, and Mark Sanford at 11%. Approximately 25% of voters remain undecided as the August 11 election approaches. Support for Norman is strongest among voters under 50 (24%) and those in their 50s (25%), while Graham has the highest support among voters over 70 (30%).
Regarding the impact of Trump's endorsement of Graham, 53% of voters believe it has no effect on their decision, while 29% feel it makes them more likely to support her, and 18% feel less likely. Voters prioritize economic issues (60%) as the primary focus for the next Senator, followed by immigration (19%), healthcare (8%), and foreign policy (4%).
In terms of grocery prices, 42% of Republican voters attribute responsibility to President Biden, followed by corporations (19%), President Trump (18%), and Congress (13%). For gas prices, 32% blame Trump, 27% blame Biden, 20% blame corporations, and 8% blame Congress. Additionally, 88% of voters believe it is important for candidates to participate in a debate before the election. Support for U.S. military action in Iran stands at 73% among Republican voters.
The survey was conducted from July 28-29, 2026, with a sample size of 500 likely GOP primary voters and a margin of error of +/- 4.3%. The data was weighted based on U.S. Census parameters and voter file data.