After a failed gubernatorial run, Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) is “strongly” considering a Senate run to replace Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC).
Mace is set to depart the House of Representatives in January after an abysmal performance in the South Carolina GOP gubernatorial primary.
However, she still has around $185,000 in her federal campaign account.
On Sunday, Mace posted a gif on X that read, “Just when I thought I was out, they pulled me back in.”
“Just when I thought I was out… they pull me back in…” pic.twitter.com/1AzRMPAEuc
— Nancy Mace (@NancyMace) July 12, 2026
More from the New York Post:
After losing her primary, Mace initially teased plans to make a return to the private sector. She had alienated President Trump by backing the Epstein Files Transparency Act, among other issues.
Trump, who backed South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette (R) before also endorsing Attorney General Alan Wilson (R), who went on to win the runoff in the governor’s race, indicated that he has someone in mind whom he’d like to succeed Graham.
“I have somebody that I think would be great,” Trump told NBC News’ “Meet the Press” on Sunday.
One name that initially floated around was Wilson’s adoptive father, Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC). Notably, tapping a sitting member of the House, even to temporarily succeed Graham, would cause complications for GOP leadership due to the ultra-slim majority in the lower chamber. The congressman suggested he’s not pursuing it.
According to POLITICO, Mace intends on polling for an “exploratory bid” this week.
“There are media reports that I’m pursuing an appointment, and I’m not for that interim role. I think that if we can keep every Republican in the House right now, that’s best for the president,” Mace said in an interview.
Watch below:
Rep. Nancy Mace: “There are media reports that I’m pursuing an appointment, and I’m not for that interim role. I think that if we can keep every Republican in the House right now, that’s best for the President.” pic.twitter.com/Gn6Y1mq660
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) July 12, 2026
CNBC shared further:
According to South Carolina state law, McMaster will need to hold a special primary election on Aug.11 to replace Graham on the November ballot. The filing period for that primary will open July 21.
McMaster has the authority to appoint a candidate to fill Graham’s current role. Michelle LeClair, McMaster’s press secretary, told CNBC: “At this time, our focus is on honoring Senator Graham’s life and service. Questions regarding the process for filling the vacancy will be addressed by the Governor’s Office when there are updates to share.”
