The race for South Carolina governor is already taking shape, with Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) turning her attention homeward in what many see as a calculated bid for power. Mace, who has spent much of her congressional tenure chasing headlines and courting controversy, recently addressed the Richland County GOP. This appearance, notably outside her 1st Congressional District, was less about serving her constituents and more about setting the stage for a gubernatorial run. Her speech targeted South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, a potential rival for governor, whom she derided as a “do-nothing Attorney General” and “one of the worst attorney generals in the country.”
A Puzzling Political Evolution
Nancy Mace first entered the political spotlight in 2018, winning the race for House District 99. She replaced Jim Merrill, who had resigned after pleading guilty to ethics violations, including failing to report income. At the time, Mace positioned herself as a pragmatic Republican focused on addressing local issues. But even then, her opportunistic tendencies were displayed, leveraging Merrill’s scandal to vault herself into office.
One of her early legislative accomplishments in the South Carolina House was successfully including exceptions for rape and incest in the state’s six-week abortion ban. While Mace continues to describe herself as “staunchly pro-life,” her rhetoric often shifts depending on her audience, reflecting a pattern of saying whatever is politically expedient. Her calls for Republicans to adopt a more moderate tone on abortion may seem reasonable, but they also ring hollow against her otherwise hardline positions.
A Shift to the National Stage—and the Spotlight
Mace gained national recognition in 2020 when she unseated incumbent Democrat Joe Cunningham in a high-profile race for South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District. Initially branding herself as a moderate Republican, Mace quickly revealed her true colors upon arriving in Washington. Rather than focusing on substantive governance, she aligned herself with the chaotic theatrics of President Donald Trump, even as he publicly snubbed her by endorsing her primary opponent in 2022.
Mace’s congressional tenure has been marked by a relentless pursuit of attention. From publicity stunts to phony assault allegations, she has prioritized self-promotion over meaningful legislative work. Her legislative record is embarrassingly thin: in five years, she has passed just one bill—renaming a post office. For someone so eager to claim the spotlight, her actual accomplishments are shockingly nonexistent.
Her obsession with stunts and headline-grabbing antics has alienated even her own political team. One of her main political strategists fired her as a client, publicly criticizing her on X for her chaotic leadership and constant need to be the victim. This departure is not an isolated incident; previous staffers have also spoken out about her erratic behavior and lack of focus on governing. Such turmoil within her own ranks raises serious concerns about her ability to lead effectively, particularly on a statewide level.
From Moderate to Extremist
Mace’s recent rhetoric signals a sharp descent into extremism. At her Richland County GOP appearance, she declared that political leaders must use “figurative violence” to enforce discipline. “You have to strike the fear of God in people,” she proclaimed, a statement as reckless as it is dangerous.
This kind of incendiary language has no place in responsible governance. South Carolina, already grappling with political polarization, does not need a leader who fans the flames of division.
South Carolina is home to 34 of the more than 1,500 individuals pardoned for their roles in the January 6 Capitol insurrection. Her rhetoric risks emboldening extremists who are all too eager to act on such provocations.
A Troubling Campaign Prelude
Though Mace has not officially declared her candidacy for governor, her actions make her intentions clear. Her attacks on Alan Wilson, a figure respected in Republican circles, seem less about policy differences and more about tearing down a rival to clear her path. Her divisive tactics and lack of focus on substantive issues should give South Carolinians pause as they consider the state’s future leadership.
Democrats may enjoy seeing Wilson come under fire, I know I do, but Mace’s broader agenda is cause for concern. Her embrace of Trumpian politics and her fixation on culture wars suggest she is more interested in advancing her personal brand than in solving the real issues facing South Carolina.
All Style, No Substance
Nancy Mace’s record in Congress leaves little doubt about her priorities. Beyond her single legislative accomplishment of renaming a post office, she has done little to address the needs of her constituents. Instead, she has used her platform to stage political stunts and parrot talking points designed to grab headlines. Her lack of meaningful achievements raises serious questions about her ability to govern effectively at the state level. But hey, Hilton Head, I hope you’re enjoying the Caesar H. Wright Jr. Post Office Building.
The Stakes for South Carolina
South Carolina deserves better than Nancy Mace. As the state grapples with challenges like education reform, infrastructure development, and economic growth, it needs leaders who prioritize substance over spectacle. Mace’s focus on inflammatory rhetoric and divisive politics shows she is more interested in advancing her career than serving the people of South Carolina.
South Carolinians should demand better from those seeking the governor’s office. Nancy Mace’s record and rhetoric suggest she is deeply unfit for the role. Voters deserve a leader who prioritizes unity, progress, and the well-being of the state over personal ambition and partisan posturing.