Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) is facing criticism from across the political spectrum for a social media post that appeared to suggest a bid to replace the late Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) in the Senate. Mace posted a clip from "The Godfather: Part III" on X, formerly Twitter, with the caption, "Just when I thought I was out... they pull me back in...." This followed earlier posts paying tribute to Graham.
Graham, who represented South Carolina for over two decades, died unexpectedly after winning his GOP primary last month. South Carolina law dictates that Gov. Henry McMaster (R) will appoint a replacement to serve the remainder of Graham's term through January 3. A special GOP primary is scheduled for August 11 to select a nominee for the general election in November.
Mace further elaborated on her potential interest in the Senate seat during an appearance on Fox News. "We're all still just sitting here stunned and shocked that this has happened," she said. "I'm never gonna shut the door. I love the state of South Carolina. You only live once, and you know, if the people of South Carolina would like me to serve in that capacity, I'll certainly take a look at it."
Critics, including Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.), condemned Mace's initial post. Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) described the social media message as "grotesque," stating, "Taking glee over the potential of becoming a Senator because of a vacancy created by the sudden death of your colleague is vile. Completely unfit to serve."
Others pointed to Mace's recent electoral performance in South Carolina. She finished fifth in the state's GOP gubernatorial primary last month, subsequently conceding the race and endorsing the Republican nominee Alan Wilson. This detail was used by critics to question the premise of her social media post, with one user commenting, "Are the people pulling you back in in the room with you right now? You just came in fifth in the race for Governor."