McMaster Selects Late Senator's Sister to Fill Senate Term

South Carolina's governor is set to appoint the late senator's sister to finish the Senate term that ends in January, according to sources familiar with the decision. The appointment will allow the replacement to serve until at least January 3, when a new Congress convenes. The governor is scheduled to hold a press conference at 4 p.m. Monday to announce the choice.

Background on the vacancy The seat became vacant after the senator's death.

President Trump posted a suggestion on social media that the governor appoint the senator's sister to the position. Several other names had been discussed as possible appointees, including a former representative and the lieutenant governor. The governor had previously indicated a preference for selecting a caretaker to complete the term.

Reactions from other officials A senator from the same state initially endorsed the former representative for the appointment. After the president's post, that senator switched support to the late senator's sister. " The governor's office did not immediately respond to questions about the president's suggestion.

The sister has also been contacted for comment.