Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., has introduced a resolution aimed at barring the formation of House caucuses organized around race, ethnicity, or national origin. If adopted, the measure could lead to the dissolution of several influential Democratic-aligned groups, including the Congressional Black Caucus, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.
Mace stated that race-based caucuses are "not diversity. They are federally-sanctioned segregation." She added, "You do not get to lecture America about inclusion while running an organization which checks your skin color at the door. The hypocrisy ends now." The South Carolina Republican also declared, "It is time to end taxpayer-funded discrimination in this institution."
The proposal is unlikely to pass the Republican-controlled House, where it is expected to face strong opposition from Democrats and some Republican lawmakers.
This resolution comes amid recent redistricting efforts in several Southern states that have altered or eliminated multiple majority-Black districts, thereby reducing the size of the Congressional Black Caucus.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, could become the first Black House speaker if Democrats regain control of the chamber in November.
Mace, who is not seeking re-election in January, has recently focused on legislation targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, transgender participation in women's sports, and birthright citizenship. She recently endorsed Rep. Ralph Norman for the Senate seat vacated by the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, opting against a Senate bid herself.