Nancy Mace Considering South Carolina Governor Run: A Look at Her Potential Campaign
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) is publicly acknowledging her potential gubernatorial run in 2026, setting the stage for an exciting campaign ahead.
Having long been rumored to enter the race, Mace confirmed her intentions this week, expressing her serious consideration to join the governor’s race next year, as Gov. Henry McMaster is termed-out in 2026.
Support for Trump and Controversies
Mace, currently in her third term in Congress, has been a prominent figure in the political arena by championing some of President Donald Trump’s key initiatives, notably against DEI and illegal immigration.
She gained attention for proposing a resolution to prohibit transgender women from using women’s bathrooms in the U.S. Capitol and engaging in public disputes with Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.), the first transgender member of Congress.
Despite her alignment with Trump on various issues, Mace has had her disagreements with the former president, particularly following the events of Jan. 6, 2021, where she criticized Trump’s actions and advocated for rebuilding the Republican Party.
Political Endorsements and Challenges
During her previous congressional race, Mace received support from Trump, but their relationship has seen ups and downs, with Trump endorsing her primary opponent in 2022, labeling her as disloyal.
However, Mace later reconciled with Trump, voicing her support for him in the 2024 elections and aligning herself with the MAGA movement.
In the upcoming governor’s race, securing Trump’s endorsement could be pivotal for Mace and other Republican contenders, given Trump’s strong influence in South Carolina.
Competing against Mace are potential candidates like State Attorney General Alan Wilson and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, all vying for the chance to represent the Republican Party in the gubernatorial race.
Future Plans and Decision-Making
Expressing her commitment to Trump’s agenda, Mace emphasized the need for strong leadership to implement conservative policies effectively if she decides to run for governor.
She plans to finalize her decision in the coming weeks after further engagement with communities across the state, drawing from her prior experience in the state Legislature and her established networks in Washington.
Mace’s determination to be a bold advocate for conservative values and drive progressive change underscores her potential impact on the gubernatorial race in South Carolina.
