Mark Sanford
About
Age 66
Mark Sanford is a former U.S. Representative and Governor of South Carolina who announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate on July 23, 2026, following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham. He is running on a platform of fiscal responsibility, warning about the nation's escalating debt.
U.S. Representative from South Carolina (1995–2001, 2013–2019)
Governor of South Carolina (2003–2011)
Presidential candidate (2019)
Where they stand
Border Security and Immigration Enforcement
“A secure border is indeed a key to sovereignty itself. Same on sanctuary cities, same on adequately funding law enforcement.” (August 3 debate)
Military intervention and war powers
“Only Congress has the authority to declare war. This decision needs to be made by Congress.” (August 3 debate)
The Filibuster and Senate Leadership
Declined to commit to backing John Thune as Senate Republican leader, calling him a “scapegoat” for the chamber's narrow Republican margin. (August 4 debate)
Money
$206K
raised
$1.4M cash
cash on hand
Others running for U.S. Senator
