U.S. Representative Nancy Mace, a South Carolina Republican, is facing strong criticism from her own party's U.S. Senators, Tim Scott and Lindsey Graham, following an incident at Charleston International Airport. The controversy centers on Mace's alleged use of profanity and disrespectful behavior towards airport police and staff. Mace denies the accusations and is threatening legal action, claiming defamation and a coordinated effort to harm her reputation.
Key Takeaways
- Rep. Nancy Mace is accused of a profanity-laced tirade at Charleston International Airport.
- U.S. Senators Tim Scott and Lindsey Graham have publicly condemned Mace's alleged behavior.
- Mace plans to sue the airport, police officials, and an American Airlines gate agent for defamation.
- A bipartisan group of over 60 local officials has defended the airport and its staff.
- The incident occurred on October 30 after a requested security escort did not appear.
Senators Condemn Mace's Actions
On November 4, Senators Tim Scott and Lindsey Graham issued separate statements criticizing Mace's conduct. Their comments came after reports detailed an incident on October 30 where Mace allegedly used vulgar language towards airport police. The congresswoman reportedly became agitated when a pre-arranged security escort was not present upon her arrival and she was then delayed at a TSA screening area.
"It is never acceptable to berate police officers, airport staff, and TSA agents who are simply doing their jobs, nor is it becoming of a Member of Congress to use such vulgar language when dealing with constituents," Senator Scott stated. "Not only are these officers sworn to protect us, but we also take an oath to represent them. We work for them, not vice versa."
Scott's remarks followed Mace's alleged comment to airport police that Scott himself would not face similar treatment. Senator Graham quickly echoed Scott's sentiments, publicly reprimanding Mace as she pursues a gubernatorial bid in South Carolina. This dual condemnation from the state's top Republican senators marks a significant blow to Mace's campaign.
Incident Details
- Date of Incident: October 30, 2025
- Location: Charleston International Airport
- Alleged Actions: Cursing at police, calling them "(expletive) incompetent."
- Reason: Lack of pre-arranged security escort and TSA screening delay.
Local Officials Rally Behind Airport Staff
The controversy expanded on November 5 when a bipartisan group of more than 60 elected officials from the Charleston tri-county area issued a public letter supporting the airport and its employees. These officials, including state lawmakers, sheriffs, and mayors from Charleston, North Charleston, Goose Creek, Mount Pleasant, Sullivan's Island, and Summerville, emphasized the airport's importance.
Community Support
The letter highlighted the Charleston International Airport's role as a vital economic engine for the Lowcountry region. It supports tourism, small businesses, and thousands of local jobs. The officials praised the airport's efficient operations and welcoming atmosphere as central to the area's identity and growth.
The letter also specifically commended law enforcement officers, TSA personnel, and airport staff. It noted their professionalism and dedication in a high-pressure environment. These individuals balance safety, customer service, and federal regulations daily. The South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police also released a statement on November 4, criticizing the disrespect shown to officers.
Mace Prepares Legal Action
Despite the widespread criticism, Representative Mace remains steadfast. On November 5, she announced her intention to sue the Charleston International Airport, its chief executive, three airport police officers, and even Republican Attorney General Alan Wilson. Mace claims that the incident report from airport police contains fabricated assertions. She alleges that the actions of those involved constitute a violation of her civil rights, defamation, and tortious interference with her gubernatorial campaign.
Airport police reports from the October 30 incident detail Mace loudly calling officers "(expletive) incompetent." She was also quoted as saying, "this is no way to treat a (expletive) U.S. Representative." These accounts form the basis of the police's version of events.
Mace Responds to Senators' Criticism
Following the condemnation from Senators Scott and Graham, Mace took to social media to defend herself. She accused the senators of "punching down, shaming and attacking a woman with thousands of death threats." Mace questioned why two men with personal security guards were offended by her concern for safety, especially given recent high-profile incidents involving political figures.
Mace directly challenged Senator Graham, writing, "Interesting. Lindsey Graham all of a sudden wants to talk about women." This prompted a sharp response from Chris LaCivita, a senior campaign adviser to Graham's 2026 re-election bid, who advised Mace to focus on her own election race.
This incident adds to a series of public disputes involving Representative Mace. Her combative style has become a notable aspect of her political presence. The unfolding legal threats and public exchanges underscore the intensity of the political landscape in South Carolina.
