Republican Representative Nancy Mace has emerged victorious in South Carolina’s 1st congressional district GOP primary for the second consecutive year, fending off a fierce challenge from her opponents.
As of 8:40 p.m ET, the Associated Press has projected that Mace will secure a victory in South Carolina’s 1st district with more than 57% outright majority, based on 27% of the votes that have been reported.
In a speech given in the Charleston area, Mace expressed her gratitude towards Trump for endorsing her in the race. Although Mace alluded to her controversial reputation, she made sure to convey her appreciation for the former president’s support.
During her victory speech, Nancy Mace expressed gratitude towards her supporters, particularly those who stood up for her. She assured President Trump of South Carolina’s support for the upcoming November elections. “President Trump, South Carolina will have your back in November. Thank you all for standing by me and sticking with me, and many of you for sticking up for me,” Mace said.
In a surprising turn of events, the sophomore representative emerged victorious in the recent election. Despite being outraised in 2024 by her opponent, former state director of labor, licensing and regulation Catherine Templeton, and facing an endorsement and financial support from former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the representative managed to secure a stunning win.
According to reports filed with the FEC, the Majority Committee PAC, which is associated with McCarthy, contributed $10,000 to Templeton’s campaign.
During Mace’s second campaign for reelection, the modern GOP’s fractious nature was on full display, showcasing the shifting allegiances within the party. Despite being a former vocal critic of Trump, Mace secured an endorsement from former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley in 2022 and garnered financial contributions from PACs associated with top GOP leaders. This support came as she faced a primary opponent who had received an endorsement from the former president himself.
Afterward, the tables have turned: Mace gained Trump’s full support after endorsing him in the state’s presidential primary against Haley, while McCarthy pursued retaliation for Mace’s decision to remove him from the speakership.
Two years ago, it would have been almost impossible to imagine a peaceful agreement between Trump and Mace.
Following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, Mace asserted that Trump’s “entire legacy” had been erased by the siege. However, during the 2022 midterms, Trump criticized Mace, labeling her as “terrible” and a disappointment.
In his endorsement of Mace’s opponent on social media, Trump stated that having someone who is widely disliked in Congress or the Republican Party is unnecessary. “Frankly, she is despised by almost everyone,” he wrote.