US Representative Nancy Mace has officially announced her candidacy for the South Carolina gubernatorial race in 2026, aiming to succeed term-limited Governor Henry McMaster. Mace, a Republican who has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2021, has gained considerable attention for her outspoken stance within the party. With her campaign launch planned at The Citadel—where she graduated as the first female member of the Corps of Cadets—Mace emphasizes her commitment to leading the state into what she terms its “Golden Age.” This significant milestone marks her intention to elevate her political profile further, as she embarks on her ambitious campaign journey.
Following her announcement, Mace will kick off her “Mother of ALL Town Halls Tour” in Myrtle Beach, a move designed to engage with constituents across the state. This grassroots approach signals her intention to connect directly with voters and address their concerns. Mace’s previous political experience includes serving in the South Carolina House from 2018 to 2020 and a high-profile but ultimately unsuccessful bid against Senator Lindsey Graham in 2014. Her established presence in South Carolina’s political landscape, combined with her tenure in Congress, positions her as a notable contender in the upcoming gubernatorial race.
Mace is expected to face stiff competition from a diverse field of Republican candidates, including fellow House member Ralph Norman, state Attorney General Alan Wilson, Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, and others. Tensions have already surfaced, particularly between Mace and Wilson, who have exchanged pointed accusations regarding allegations she made about her past experiences with sexual abuse. Mace’s claims, which Wilson has dismissed as “categorically false,” have led to a defamation lawsuit, illustrating the contentious atmosphere of the campaign as candidates jockey for position.
Polling data suggests that Mace may currently hold a slight advantage among voters, though a significant portion remain undecided. A recent survey revealed that over half of GOP primary voters in South Carolina have yet to commit to a candidate. This uncertain political landscape underscores the importance of candidate endorsements and voter sentiment as the race progresses. Notably, the potential involvement of former President Donald Trump looms large over the competition; his endorsement could significantly sway the primary results.
Mace’s complicated past relationship with Trump—initially criticizing him for the January 6 Capitol riot, only to later oppose his impeachment—adds an intriguing layer to her campaign. After endorsing Trump during the 2024 presidential primaries against former Governor Nikki Haley, Mace appears to be strategically aligning herself with GOP leadership as she seeks to bolster her candidacy. Conversely, her fellow candidate Ralph Norman’s support for Haley reveals a split within the party as they approach the gubernatorial race.
In recent years, Mace has also gained notoriety for her engagement in cultural and social issues, often positioning herself as a staunch advocate for conservative values. Her involvement in contentious debates, including protecting women’s spaces and challenging progressive representation, has resonated with a segment of the Republican base. Additionally, her participation in the ousting of former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy highlights her willingness to align with hardline conservatives in pursuit of political disruption. Given South Carolina’s Republican stronghold status, the primary winner will likely emerge as the frontrunner in the general election, making Mace’s campaign one to watch closely.
