South Carolina Lawmaker Slams GOP Leadership in Stark Critique
South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace has harshly criticized Republican leadership in the House, reflecting rising unhappiness with parliamentary procedure. Mace wrote in a forthright opinion article that GOP leaders prioritize party dominance over responsibility and real accomplishments, marginalizing ordinary lawmakers in the legislative process.
Mace, a South Carolina governor candidate, stressed that just a few legislators negotiate significant bills behind closed doors. She accused the leadership of breaking agreements to engage rank-and-file input, resulting in long legislation with unconnected policies. Many party members are frustrated that “No one can be held responsible for inaction, so far too little gets done,” she wrote.
She questioned if House floor debate and collaboration would lead to more conservative legislation or bipartisan cooperation. Her response was simple: both. Mace calls the existing system “the worst of all worlds” with no accountability, transparency, or results.
In an unprecedented move, Mace praised former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, saying Democrats knew how to deliver for their coalition. Once Republicans have a majority, they become unduly cautious and propose moderate ideas that fail to satisfy their base, threatening their hold on power, she said.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has been criticized extensively, including by Mace. Elise Stefanik and Marjorie Taylor Greene, other prominent Republicans, have questioned Johnson’s leadership. Stefanik called him vulnerable to removal, while Greene accused him of sidelining party members while remaining loyal to the White House. Johnson dismissed criticism, saying he is “not worried” about his position and attributing the unrest to internal discontent and political scheming.
Personal issues beyond Congress have also drawn attention to Mace. She reportedly used foul words with Charleston International Airport security agents about a congressional escort. An internal review found that airport colleagues were concerned by her conduct, which got widespread press in recent weeks.
Mace’s criticism shows the Republican Party’s ideological differences and doubts about its capacity to govern as it prepares for elections. A rising discussion about how congressional leadership may combine party interests with transparency, responsibility, and responsiveness to all House members includes her words.
Sources:
The New York Times
The Wall Street Journal
NBC News
CNN
The Washington Post
