Controversial Christian lawmaker Nancy Mace is running for governor in South Carolina, confirming her entry into the race with a fiery speech and an equally intense promo video that describes her as a “fighter,” as “resilient,” and as a “firebrand,” with conservatives reacting by showing both support and concern for her decision to run.
For background, on August 1, 2025, Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), an outspoken Christian, announced her official entry into South Carolina’s gubernatorial race. Rep. Mace, a divisive figure on the right, has previously been explicit about her faith and even recited passages from the Bible on the House floor.
Speaking to Fox News, Rep. Mace said that she was running “to put South Carolina first,” adding, “we can continue doing the things we’ve always done, or we can chart a new course, one filled with common sense and bold policies to hold the line for South Carolina.”
Moreover, in a speech delivered on August 1 to start off her campaign, Rep. Mace said that South Carolinians are “tired of politicians who smile for the cameras, lie to your face, and then vanish when it’s time to lead.” She added, “I’m not one of them. I’m running for governor because South Carolina doesn’t need another empty suit. It needs a governor who will fight for you and your values.”
Continuing, Rep. Mace said that she “didn’t come to join the club,” referring to the aforementioned politicians, adding, “They don’t want me, and I don’t want them.” She went on, “I came to hold the line. They said, ‘Stay quiet.’ I spoke up. They said, ‘Sit down.’ I stood up. They said, ‘Play nice,’ and I fought back.”
Furthermore, the lawmaker said that her entrance into the race “isn’t about playing defense,” adding, “This is about going on offense for you — for your family, for your freedom and for your future … I wasn’t built to kiss the ring. I just wear one. I don’t answer to the establishment. I don’t owe those in the back room a single thing. I answer to the people. And the people, let me tell you, are fed up.”
In addition, during her speech, Rep. Mace said she was going to “ban pronouns in the classroom” in public schools, adding, “I don’t want to see any glitter parties. I want kids coming home with A’s and B’s, not they and them. We’re going to have tech-free school zones.” She doubled down, saying, “We will not fund any schools that allow biological men in women’s bathrooms or locker rooms, that allow men to compete in women’s sports, or schools that push gender ideology.”
In a post on X announcing her run, Rep. Mace said, “God’s not done with South Carolina and neither am I.” She added, “God’s not done with South Carolina and neither am I. You and me. Our mission begins now. South Carolina First. Nancy Mace for Governor.” In response, the X user rowdyamerican was among many commenters who chimed in to express concerns about the lawmaker’s bid, saying, “Hope you’ve got a plan, not just slogans. Let’s see some action.”
Watch Rep. Mace’s first promo for her gubernatorial campaign:
Featured image credit: video screengrab