A new poll conducted by Pulse Opinion Research and commissioned by the campaign of Mark Lynch suggests a competitive shift in the 2026 Republican primary race in South Carolina. Incumbent Sen. Lindsey Graham leads in the initial ballot with 41%, followed by Lynch at 21% and Paul Dans at 11%, while a notable share of voters remain undecided. However, when respondents were presented with additional background information about the candidates, the poll showed Lynch gaining ground while Graham’s support declined.
According to the survey memo, Lynch’s support rises significantly on the “informed” ballot, while Graham’s numbers drop, highlighting the potential impact of voter awareness on the race. The findings also point to a large undecided bloc, suggesting the contest remains fluid. Lynch has positioned himself as an “America First” conservative and has committed substantial personal funding to his campaign, while Graham has responded by launching campaign ads defending his record.
The polling results have drawn attention from political analysts, including Mark Mitchell of Rasmussen Reports, who noted that early indicators show vulnerability for the incumbent. At the same time, polling commissioned by campaigns can vary in methodology and may reflect strategic messaging, so outcomes can shift as more independent data becomes available.
In public statements, Lynch has sharply criticized Graham’s record, particularly on foreign policy and federal spending, while emphasizing his own platform focused on domestic priorities. As the primary approaches, the race is expected to evolve with additional polling, campaign outreach, and voter engagement shaping the final outcome.