Republican Rep. Ralph Norman of South Carolina criticized President Donald Trump and Sen. Darline Graham, accusing them of using political influence and campaign spending to promote Graham as the state’s Senate race draws attention ahead of the general election against Annie Andrews.

“The voters in South Carolina are not buying the argument that everyone has to ‘settle’ for a candidate that has been propped up by special interest groups and a Republican president spending millions of dollars spreading false narratives about why Darline Graham is qualified to be elected to the U.S. Senate for the next six years!!” Norman wrote in a text message to CNN in response to a request for comment on the race.

Norman accused political leaders of trying to dictate the outcome of the contest rather than allowing South Carolina voters to choose their preferred candidate.

“This election is about attempts to ‘force’ a candidate on the voters of S.C. And regardless of the outcome, it didn’t have to be this way, as the great people living in South Carolina deserve ‘better!’ Bottom line!! Elections have consequences!!” he added.

The remarks highlight divisions within the Republican Party over the Senate contest, with Norman challenging the influence of the party’s national leadership and outside spending in determining the nominee. His criticism directly targets Trump’s involvement and Graham’s support for the candidate, framing the dispute as a question of voter choice and political pressure.

The general election contest also puts the Republican infighting in a broader political context, as the GOP seeks to hold the seat against Democratic challenger Annie Andrews. The race has drawn attention over the role of national endorsements and campaign spending, with Norman arguing that South Carolina voters should not feel pressured to accept a candidate backed by party leaders.

Norman’s comments add to the public criticism surrounding the contest, putting Trump’s role in the race under scrutiny and raising questions about whether the party’s efforts to unite behind its preferred candidate will resonate with South Carolina voters.