Paul Dans, a former Trump official and writer for the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025, is officially entering the race to challenge incumbent Senator Lindsey Graham for the South Carolina Senate seat in the upcoming 2026 elections.

Dans's campaign is built on a platform that emphasizes 'draining the swamp' and dismantling the administrative state, reflecting the hard-right proposals outlined in Project 2025.

He aims to reshape the Senate, which he views as a critical 'chokepoint' in Washington politics, and believes his candidacy represents a necessary push against what he calls the 'progressive era'.

Recent polls indicate that Graham's approval ratings among Republican voters are declining, suggesting he may be vulnerable in his reelection bid.

Despite this, Graham has a significant campaign war chest and strong support from key South Carolina Republicans, including endorsements from Trump, Sen. Tim Scott, and Gov. Henry McMaster.

The primary contest is expected to be a significant test for Trump's MAGA coalition, with Dans asserting that Graham's support within this group has diminished, particularly after a rally where Graham was booed.

Dans has labeled Graham as the 'top swamp critter,' criticizing his alignment with the MAGA base and accusing him of undermining the America First agenda.

Positioning himself as a political outsider, Dans plans to travel across South Carolina to campaign, emphasizing his understanding of conservative values and priorities.

With a strong educational background, including degrees from MIT and the University of Virginia Law School, Dans has spent two decades in commercial litigation before transitioning to government service during Trump's administration.

Dans's campaign launch will feature a prayer breakfast and a kickoff event, with local Republican leaders expressing enthusiasm for his candidacy and views.

In response, Graham's campaign adviser has criticized Dans, suggesting he is an outsider who will struggle against Graham's established presence in South Carolina.

This race reflects the ongoing political dynamics within the Republican Party in South Carolina, as candidates like Dans challenge established incumbents like Graham.