On August 8, 2025, André Bauer, former lieutenant governor of South Carolina, announced via his X account (formerly Twitter) that he is suspending his campaign for the U.S. Senate. He stated that after “deep prayer and reflection,” he decided to withdraw, expressing a desire to promote leaders “grounded in truth, integrity, and faith.” Bauer framed his exit as a stand against a political environment that he believes rewards “division” and “deception.” He offered no endorsement of any remaining candidates.
After deep prayer and reflection, I have decided to suspend my campaign for the United States Senate.
This decision does not come lightly. I entered this race with a servant’s heart—believing that our nation needs leaders who are grounded in truth, integrity, and faith. But I…
— André Bauer (@AndreBauerSC) August 8, 2025
Bauer’s campaign had lasted just 38 days, challenging incumbent Senator Lindsey Graham by arguing that Graham has been in office too long and no longer reflects South Carolina conservative values—even though Graham has secured the endorsement of former President Trump.
In response to Bauer’s announcement, fellow challenger Paul Dans—author of the conservative blueprint Project 2025—praised Bauer’s decision as one of humility and unity. Dans also commended another candidate, Mark Lynch, positioning himself as part of a coalition opposing Graham.
Remaining Republican Candidates in the GOP Primary:
- Lindsey Graham — the four-term incumbent Senator
- Paul Dans — Attorney, served in President Trump first administration
- Mark Lynch — appliance-repair executive challenging Graham
- Thomas Murphy — retired Navy hospital corpsman also in the race
