Impact Research Finds Majority of South Carolinians Ready for a New Senator; Graham Trails Andrews by 19 Points Among Independents
Charleston, SC — A new statewide poll conducted by Impact Research shows Senator Lindsey Graham is one of the most vulnerable incumbents in the country, with a deeply underwater favorability rating, a majority of voters looking to replace him, and Democratic challenger Dr. Annie Andrews already within striking distance.
The survey of 700 likely 2026 General Election voters in South Carolina, conducted February 25–March 1, 2026, reveals that Graham’s political standing has deteriorated dramatically, while Andrews’ biography and message are resonating with key swing voters.
Key findings include:
- Senator Graham’s favorability stands at just 34% favorable / 61% unfavorable — an extraordinarily weak position for a three-term incumbent seeking re-election.
- Only 32% of South Carolina voters say they would definitely or probably vote to re-elect Graham, while 57% say they are looking to vote for someone else.
- Graham trails Andrews by 19 points among Independent voters on favorability.
- In a direct head-to-head matchup, Graham leads by just five points (47% Graham / 42% Andrews / 11% undecided) — well below the 50% threshold that typically signals incumbents in danger.
- When voters are presented with balanced biographical information about both candidates, the margin collapses to just two points (46% Graham / 44% Andrews / 9% undecided).
“Senator Graham is in serious political trouble, and this poll confirms what South Carolinians already know — they’re ready for change,” said Dr. Annie Andrews. “I’m running because working families in this state deserve a senator who fights for them, not one who’s spent decades in Washington collecting corporate checks and enriching himself while kids can’t afford to see a doctor. This race is winnable, and we’re going to win it.”
Graham has not appeared on the ballot in a midterm election without former President Donald Trump at the top of the ticket since 2014 — a dynamic that could significantly affect Republican turnout in 2026.
The survey was conducted by Impact Research via live phone and text-to-web interview of N=700 likely 2026 General Election voters in South Carolina between February 25 and March 1, 2026. The margin of error is +/- 3.7% for the total sample and is higher for subgroups.
The poll memo by Impact Research is available here.