Nancy Mace’s unpredictable career is up in the air after finishing last in South Carolina primary

U.S. Representative Nancy Mace finished fifth in South Carolina's Republican primary for governor, leaving her political future uncertain. Her campaign was marked by a series of controversial stances, including criticizing Donald Trump after initially courting his support, advocating for a law barring non-born U.S. citizens from holding office, and making disparaging remarks about a naturalized citizen candidate. Mace struggled with fundraising and television presence, relying primarily on social media. Despite her loss, she has endorsed Alan Wilson in the gubernatorial runoff, even after previously accusing him of misconduct. Mace's political career began in the South Carolina House before she won a U.S. House seat in 2020.

Former Navy Rear Admiral Nancy Lacore, who was dismissed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth last August, has advanced to a Democratic run-off for South Carolina's first congressional district. Lacore, who served 35 years in the Navy and was chief of the Navy Reserve, will face US Coast Guard veteran Mac Deford on June 23rd for the Democratic nomination. Her dismissal was part of Hegseth's broader effort to remove senior military officials perceived as not aligning with the Trump administration's vision. Lacore's campaign has garnered support from veterans' groups and EMILYs List, and she has raised significant funds. The eventual Democratic nominee faces a challenging race in a district previously won by Republican Nancy Mace.

In South Carolina's Republican gubernatorial primary, Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson will advance to a runoff election. Both are backed by Donald Trump. This outcome signifies a significant defeat for Congresswoman Nancy Mace, who finished fifth and attributed her loss to her vote to release the Epstein files. The winner of the Republican primary is favored to win the general election in the conservative state. In another key race, Lindsey Graham secured the Republican nomination for his US Senate seat, facing five challengers. He will compete against Democrat Annie Andrews in November.