Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has officially declined interest in running for the United States Senate seat left vacant following the sudden death of longtime Senator Lindsey Graham on Sunday. A representative for Haley confirmed to Bloomberg that she will not seek appointment or enter the upcoming special election to fill the seat.

The unexpected passing of Graham, who represented South Carolina in the Senate since 2003, sent shockwaves through the American political landscape and prompted widespread bipartisan tributes. Graham was widely recognized for his prominent role in shaping national security policy and his influential political career.

Following the tragic news, Haley posted a heartfelt tribute to Graham on social media, praising his lifelong dedication to public service and his fierce defense of conservative principles. Supporters quickly flooded the comments section of her post, urging the former presidential candidate to launch a campaign for the open seat.