President Donald Trump rallied supporters in Rock Hill, South Carolina, on Thursday to boost Republican Sen. Darline Graham in her race against Democratic challenger Dr. Annie Andrews. The event at the Rock Hill Sports and Event Center marked Trump's third visit to the state this election cycle as the contest has grown unexpectedly competitive.

Graham, who was appointed to the seat after her brother Lindsey Graham died in July and won a primary runoff, faces Andrews in a race that polls show is tied or within the margin of error. A New York Times/Siena poll released earlier this week found both candidates at 48 percent. Other surveys have shown similar closeness in a state that has long favored Republicans.

Trump told the crowd to act as if he were on the ballot himself to drive turnout. He praised Graham and criticized Andrews as too radical for South Carolina. The president also highlighted economic growth figures from the third quarter while urging voters to support the full Republican ticket ahead of the Nov. 3 midterms.

The race has drawn significant outside spending, with both parties directing roughly $40 million into advertising in the past month alone. Analysts have noted that voter concerns over inflation and cost of living, combined with lingering primary divisions, have contributed to the tighter-than-expected contest.

Graham has emphasized her conservative record and local roots while accusing Andrews of hiding her positions. The Democratic candidate, a pediatrician, has positioned herself as a moderate alternative in the heavily Republican state.

Trump's repeated trips underscore the national stakes, as control of the Senate hangs in the balance with Election Day just days away.