Paul Dans, a Republican challenger to Sen. Lindsey Graham in South Carolina, is making waves in the GOP primary with a high-profile pledge tied to NASCAR.

Speaking from Darlington Raceway during the Goodyear 400, Dans said that if elected, his first call as senator would be to NASCAR leadership to urge the reversal of its 2020 ban on Confederate flags at races.

Dans framed the issue as one of cultural and regional identity, arguing that South Carolinians should be free to display the flag at racing events. His remarks included criticism of NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace, who had called for the ban during the unrest following George Floyd’s death.

NASCAR implemented the policy in June 2020, stating that the Confederate flag conflicted with its goal of maintaining an inclusive environment for fans, drivers, and staff.

Dans has centered his campaign on unseating Graham, branding himself as a more aggressive conservative alternative. His platform also emphasizes opposition to foreign conflicts and a push to dismantle what he describes as entrenched federal bureaucracy.

President Donald Trump has endorsed Graham in the race, while businessman Mark Lynch is also running in the Republican primary, adding to the developing contest.

The race is shaping up as a closely watched Republican primary contest, with voters set to weigh establishment leadership against challengers seeking to reshape the party’s direction.