Gov. Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary replacement while Republicans prepare for a special election to fill the seat permanently.

The sudden death of Sen. 👤Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., has set in motion the process to fill his Senate seat, with President 👤Donald Trump expected to play a major role in shaping who succeeds one of his closest allies.

According to Fox News, Graham's death leaves Senate Republicans with a narrower margin in the chamber.

The GOP now holds 52 seats, but with Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., still absent while recovering from a medical emergency, Republicans are effectively operating with 51 votes.

Speaking on NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday, Trump said he already has someone in mind to replace Graham but declined to reveal the name.

"I have somebody that I think would be great," Trump said. "But I don't want to say it now because it's just, it's too soon with Lindsey. I don't wanna even talk about anybody, but I do have somebody that I think is really good."

Under South Carolina law, Gov. Henry McMaster will first appoint a temporary replacement to serve in the Senate. McMaster, a longtime Trump ally, can make the appointment at any time, though his office has not announced when a decision will be made or identified any potential candidates.

Because Graham had already won the Republican primary while seeking a fifth Senate term, the appointee would serve through the remainder of his current term before voters choose a long-term successor.

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The filing period for the special election begins July 21, with the Republican primary scheduled for Aug. 11.

Several prominent South Carolina Republicans are already being mentioned as possible candidates.

Rep. Nancy Mace is considering entering the race, according to a person familiar with her plans.

Rep. Ralph Norman is also weighing a campaign, with a source telling Fox News Digital he is "seriously considering a run" and plans to make an announcement Tuesday.

Rep. Joe Wilson quickly ruled himself out after speaking with Trump.

"I just assured President Trump I intend to remain in the House for his agenda, as he and I reviewed our appreciation for 👤Lindsey Graham." Wilson wrote on X.

Reps. Russell Fry, William Timmons, and Sheri Biggs have not publicly indicated whether they intend to run.

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South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette has also emerged as a potential contender.

A source familiar with the discussions told Fox News Digital she has received encouragement from supporters across South Carolina and around the country to serve as Graham's temporary replacement and to consider seeking the seat permanently.