Former South Carolina Lt. Gov. André Bauer (R) is suspending his Senate campaign that sought to primary Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), saying he doesn’t want to further contribute to division in the country.
Bauer, in a Friday post on the social platform X, said he didn’t make the decision lightly and entered the race with a goal of serving, believing the country needs leaders “grounded in truth, integrity, and faith.”
“But I believe now, more than ever, that in order for us to truly move forward, we must stop tearing one another down with lies and division,” he continued. “I cannot and will not be part of a political climate that rewards deception over honesty, or ambition over unity. God calls us to walk in truth, to speak life, and to be peacemakers—not power seekers.”
Bauer said winning won’t come through slander but through unity, humility and a “shared desire to honor God and serve one another.”
“I pray the remaining candidates can do just that,” the former lieutenant governor added. “I’m deeply grateful to all who supported this campaign my family and I over the years.”
Bauer likely faced long odds challenging Graham, a close ally of President Trump who has already secured his endorsement. The incumbent senator also has the support of South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster (R) and his colleague Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), the chair of Senate Republicans’ campaign arm.
Graham has faced primary challenges in the past when he’s been up for election but has fended each of them off.
He reposted Bauer’s post on his own X account, wishing him well and expressing appreciation for his service to the state.
Bauer served as lieutenant governor from 2003-11 under former Gov. Mark Sanford (R) and unsuccessfully ran for a House seat in 2012.
Graham is still facing a primary challenge from Paul Dans, who was an author of the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, a blueprint of conservative hopes for Trump’s second term.
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