Andrews Officially Files for Senate, New Statewide Poll Shows Race Tightening, EMILY’s List Endorsement

Charleston, SC — Dr. Annie Andrews’ campaign for U.S. Senate marked a major turning point this week, as new statewide polling shows the race tightening, Andrews officially entered the race, and EMILY’s List announced its endorsement of her campaign.

Together, the developments highlight a campaign gaining strength, and a race that is rapidly becoming one of the most competitive Senate contests in the country.

A new statewide poll conducted by Impact Research shows Senator Lindsey Graham deeply underwater with South Carolina voters, a devastating 34% favorable / 61% unfavorable rating and Dr. Annie Andrews narrowing the race to just two points once voters hear both candidates’ biographies.

“This week made one thing clear: South Carolinians are ready for change,” said Dr. Annie Andrews. “I’m running because families in this state deserve a senator who fights for them — not one who’s spent decades in Washington looking out for himself and his donors. The more voters hear our message, the more they’re ready to turn the page. This race is winnable, and we’re going to win it.”

On Tuesday, March 17, Andrews officially filed her candidacy for U.S. Senate at the South Carolina State Elections Commission, marking her formal entry into the race and kicking off the next phase of the campaign.

That same day, EMILY’s List — the nation’s largest organization dedicated to electing Democratic pro-choice women — announced its endorsement of Dr. Andrews, citing her record as a pediatrician and advocate for South Carolina families.

“While Lindsey Graham has spent two decades serving himself and his donors, Dr. Annie Andrews has spent nearly 20 years fighting for South Carolina’s children and families,” said EMILY’s List President Jessica Mackler. “We are proud to support her campaign and work alongside her to defeat Senator Graham.”

The endorsement adds to a growing coalition of national and in-state support behind Andrews’ campaign, which has been fueled by grassroots energy and a focus on lowering costs, expanding access to healthcare, and restoring accountability in Washington.

The Impact Research poll also shows Andrews performing strongly with key swing voters, including a 19-point advantage over Graham among independents on favorability, further underscoring the shifting political landscape in South Carolina.

After more than two decades in Washington, Graham faces a challenging environment: declining approval, a changing electorate, and a midterm cycle without Donald Trump at the top of the ticket.

Meanwhile, Andrews — a pediatrician, mom, and political outsider — continues to gain ground as voters are introduced to her background and message.

This week’s developments mark a clear inflection point in the race, as Andrews builds the coalition and momentum needed to win in 2026.