Sen. Darline Graham, R.S.C., addresses a swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol after being sworn in on the Senate floor on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Tom Williams | CQ-Eoll Call, Inc. | Getty Images Polls have begun to close in primary elections across the country, as voters in states like Wisconsin, Minnesota and South Carolina choose their party’s candidates ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. In South Carolina, polls closed at 7 p.m. ET as Republican voters narrow their options to be the GOP nominee to succeed the late Senator Lindsey Graham. Darline Graham, R.S.C., will advance to a runoff for the nomination, according to the Associated Press. Graham was appointed to the Senate to fill her brother’s seat for the remainder of his term, which ends in January, and was endorsed by President Donald Trump for a full term. Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., will also advance to the runoff, setting up a showdown with Graham for the nomination later this year. In Minnesota and Wisconsin, polls will close at 9 pm Eastern time. In both states, progressive Democrats face more moderate Democratic candidates, a crucial test as the party’s left flank emerges across the country. Read more CNBC Politics and Policy Coverage Progressive Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan faces centrist Rep. Angie Craig, D-Minn., for the Democratic nomination for an open Senate seat in Minnesota. In Wisconsin, Democratic Socialist Francesca Hong is the favorite to be the Democratic gubernatorial candidate. Current Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, who is retiring, has endorsed Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley to succeed him. This story is developing. Please check back for updates. Choose CNBC as your preferred source on Google and never miss a moment from the most trusted name in business news.
