Possible Senate Run for Nancy Mace

Representative Nancy Mace is reportedly giving strong consideration to pursuing the Senate seat left vacant by the late Lindsey Graham, according to two sources. Mace, a Republican from South Carolina, is keeping her options open for a potential last-minute campaign.

Graham’s unexpected passing occurred Saturday night due to a “short, sudden illness,” as confirmed by his office. He was in the midst of his re-election campaign and had recently won the Republican primary.

Mace, who ended up fifth in last month’s gubernatorial primary in South Carolina, is set to exit the House of Representatives in January due to that loss. Interestingly, she still has approximately $185,000 remaining in her federal campaign fund.

The congresswoman has a history of making controversial statements, having previously run against Graham in the 2014 Republican primary, finishing in a similar position. In a somewhat cryptic social media post, she referenced a desire to escape from her current situation, quoting, “Just when I thought I was out…they pulled me back in…”

Initially, Mace hinted at plans to return to private life following her primary defeat. Her decision to support the Epstein File Transparency Act had reportedly caused a rift with former President Trump. Given this, Trump has backed South Carolina’s Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and former Attorney General Alan Wilson, indicating he might favor someone specific to fill Graham’s seat.

Trump remarked, “There are people who think he’s a great person,” during an appearance on NBC News’ “Meet the Press.”

One potential candidate for the Senate seat could be Rep. Joe Wilson, who is the adoptive father of Alan Wilson. However, there are concerns that appointing a current congressman to the role might complicate things for Republican leaders, especially considering their slim majority in the House. Joe Wilson has already stated he would not seek the position.

He shared his thoughts on Twitter after speaking with Trump, reflecting on their friendship with Graham. “I promised him that my goal was to remain in the House and maintain a two-vote majority of the American people!” he wrote.

Governor Henry McMaster will be responsible for appointing Graham’s successor, who will serve the remainder of his term. With Graham seeking re-election this term, it’s anticipated that a special Republican primary to nominate a candidate will occur by August 11th.