Nancy Mace Announces Run for South Carolina Governor in 2026

Congresswoman Nancy Mace announced her candidacy for the upcoming South Carolina gubernatorial race on Monday, joining an increasingly competitive field in the state. She is competing against fellow Republicans including Representative Ralph Norman, Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, Attorney General Alan Wilson, and State Senator Josh Kimbrell in the 2026 primary. Mace, a fiery Republican known for her outspoken stance, delivered her campaign launch speech at The Citadel, her alma mater, where she emphasized her commitment to fighting for South Carolina's values. She stated, "Our state needs a leader who will stand up for the truth and advocate tirelessly for its people." The current governor, Henry McMaster, is ineligible to seek re-election due to term limits, paving the way for a new Republican contender. In a campaign video shared on social media, Mace highlighted her resilience and bold approach, quoting former President Donald Trump, who has praised her tenacity. Despite a complex relationship with Trump—who endorsed her opponent in 2022—Mace remains a prominent figure in conservative politics. Throughout her tenure in Congress, Mace has been vocal on issues such as gend...