A recent survey of South Carolina's U.S. Senate race shows former Republican Senator Darline Graham leading Democratic challenger Annie Andrews by four percentage points among likely voters, 51% to 47%, according to the latest East Carolina University poll conducted October 19–24. Another 2% of respondents support an independent, minor-party, or write-in candidate. The poll's credibility interval is ±3.7 percentage points, comparable to a margin of error.
The results suggest a competitive contest in which the economy and cost of living are paramount for voters. According to the poll, 54% of likely voters identify the economy, including the cost of living, as the top issue, while border security and immigration rank second at 14%. These priorities are likely to shape the closing arguments of both campaigns.
Andrews holds an advantage among independents, leading 53% to 43%. However, Graham's overwhelming 93% to 6% advantage among Republicans provides a sufficient cushion to maintain a slight overall lead. The poll's findings indicate that party loyalty remains a decisive factor in the race.
The survey was conducted by the ECU Center for Survey Research, which conducts nonpartisan public opinion polling on elections, politics, and public policy issues in North Carolina and across the nation. The center's work is intended to inform public understanding of key political dynamics.
For a complete overview of the poll, including downloadable images and bios, click here. The full announcement provides additional data and analysis that may be of interest to voters and observers.
The poll's implications extend beyond the Senate race. With the economy dominating voter concerns, the candidates' positions on inflation and cost-of-living issues are likely to be central to their campaigns. The four-point gap, while within the credibility interval, suggests that the race remains fluid and could shift as the election approaches.
As the contest enters its final stretch, the ECU poll offers a snapshot of voter sentiment in South Carolina. The findings underscore the importance of economic messaging and the potential for independent voters to influence the outcome. Both campaigns will likely use these results to refine their strategies and target key demographics.
