Former South Carolina Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer is mounting a GOP primary challenge to Sen. Lindsey Graham , arguing the incumbent isn't conservative enough to represent the state.
Bauer, a wealthy developer, is a longtime backer of President Donald Trump . His candidacy sets up a midterm grudge match with Graham, a four-term senator whose relationship with Trump has undulated through the years, but who has Trump's endorsement for reelection.
Bauer has described himself as "a real, America First conservative" intent on representing what he sees as South Carolina conservatives' true values.
"I think Graham's been there too long, and he votes like it," Bauer told The Associated Press Tuesday night. "I'm guaranteed, I'm conservative, and I don't think he is."
Republicans dominate South Carolina's statewide-elected positions, meaning that the most intense political competition takes place in GOP primaries.