Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) has openly expressed interest in running for governor in 2026, which could pave the way for the passionate lawmaker to pursue another statewide election.
She made the announcement on X on January 22nd.
Congresswoman Nancy Mace on X
President Trump needs bold leaders to implement his agenda in every state across the nation.
It will take grit. It will take strength. It will take hard work.
I can confirm, affirmative, yes, we are considering a run in 2026.
South Carolina First.https://t.co/5WLXkckPVp
— Nancy Mace (@NancyMace) January 23, 2025
Nancy Mace has been the subject of ongoing speculation regarding her potential candidacy, as Governor Henry McMaster will be ineligible for reelection in 2026. However, Mace also confirmed her intentions in a recent statement to the Associated Press, expressing her serious contemplation of running for governor in the upcoming year.
Congresswoman Nancy Mace, currently in her third term, has gained attention by advocating for two key issues championed by President Donald Trump: opposing DEI initiatives and addressing illegal immigration. Notably, Mace introduced a resolution aiming to prohibit transgender women from utilizing women’s restrooms within the U.S. Capitol.
Last year, President Trump supported Mace in her Republican primary campaign for South Carolina’s 1st District, and she remains an unwavering advocate of the president. Horry County is Trump Country. Nancy Mace can win the off cycle race if Horry County voters simply turn out in support for her.
Horry County’s annual growth rate is 24%, as we mentioned in our previous report this year. In 2025, the number of registered voters surpasses the total population count recorded in the 2020 census. These voters align with the red party.
Trump won South Carolina convincingly in each of his three presidential campaigns. Mace and fellow Republicans will vie for Trump’s endorsement, which has the potential to sway the outcome of the primary.
If she decides to participate in the race, she can expect to encounter rivals from various South Carolina politicians, including State Attorney General Alan Wilson and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, among others. Each will be seeking an endorsement of President Trump.
“Trump is going to need people in governor seats in ’26,” Mace told the AP. “In ’26, we need people who can win, win big, and implement his agenda, and I will do that.”
“I’ve been in the state Legislature before, I have great relationships in Washington now, and I’ve acquired the leadership necessary to be bold, to make sure that we are moving forward with conservative policies,” Mace said.
About Nancy Mace
Congresswoman Mace hails from Fort Bragg and was brought up in the Lowcountry, instilled with the importance of diligence by her parents – a former Army General and a retired educator. Commencing her professional path at the age of 17, Mace embarked on her career, commencing in the service industry as a waitress at the Waffle House located on College Park Road in Ladson.
Mace overcame an initial obstacle and demonstrated unwavering resolve, resulting in her remarkable academic achievements. In 1999, she made history as the inaugural female graduate from The Citadel’s Corps of Cadets, graduating magna cum laude. Furthermore, she pursued further education and obtained a master’s degree from The University of Georgia in 2004.
Mace, fueled by her dedication to education, achieved her high school diploma by taking college classes at Trident Technical College located in North Charleston. Making a shift towards public service, she gained recognition for being one of the South Carolina General Assembly’s most financially responsible members, all while advocating for the preservation of the environment.
Mace, a highly skilled writer, authored the book In The Company of Men: A Woman at The Citadel which was published by Simon & Schuster in 2001. Drawing from her varied experiences, she founded her own firm in 2008, focusing on technology, PR & marketing, and commercial real estate.
Mace exemplifies qualities of integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to achieving outcomes for the Lowcountry. Through bipartisan collaboration, she successfully shepherded several bills into law, including the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act and the Human Trafficking Prevention Act of 2022. Mace’s contributions have garnered prestigious accolades, such as the 2021 Club for Growth Defender of Economic Freedom Award.
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
