Mace’s opponent puts spotlight on her past criticism of Trump in a new ad. Yahoo!
South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette has launched a new campaign ad aimed squarely at Representative Nancy Mace. The ad, titled “Never Trump Nancy,” highlights Mace’s past criticism of former President Donald Trump, including her 2021 comments doubting his future in the Republican Party. It also points to her fundraiser for Trump critic Liz Cheney and her vote to certify President Biden’s 2020 victory.
Clips Resurface in New Ad
The ad includes footage of Trump calling Mace “Crazy Nancy Mace” at a rally. It also plays a clip of Trump saying, “She’s a terrible person, and she knows no idea what she’s doing.”
Mace Counters With Trump Ties
Although Mace once openly criticized Trump, she now calls herself “Trump in heels.” She has become one of his strongest supporters in Congress, often embracing his policies and style.
In response to Evette’s ad, Mace’s campaign dismissed the attack. “Nancy Mace was one of the first hires for President Trump’s 2015 campaign while the nice lady from Ohio was busy sipping cocktails at the country club trying to manage her husband’s alleged fraud problems,” said campaign spokesperson Sydney Long.
She also accused Evette of being upset by Trump’s recent social media post that shared polling showing Mace with a “massive lead.”
Ad Battle Escalates
Evette’s ad comes as part of a million-dollar blitz promoting her loyalty to Trump. Both she and Mace are competing in a crowded Republican primary to replace outgoing Governor Henry McMaster. Trump’s endorsement looms large in the race, as he remains deeply popular in South Carolina.
Race Heats Up
Five Republicans are running in the primary, with Mace and state Attorney General Alan Wilson emerging as early frontrunners. A recent poll showed Mace leading with 16 percent support among Republican voters, followed closely by Wilson at 15 percent. Evette trailed with 8 percent, while Representatives Ralph Norman and State Senator Josh Kimbrell polled at 6 percent and 3 percent, respectively.
The poll also revealed that more than half of voters remain undecided, leaving room for the race to shift as campaigns ramp up.
The Trump Factor
With Trump’s backing considered the biggest prize in the race, candidates are working hard to prove their loyalty. For Evette, that means attacking Mace for her past remarks. For Mace, it means reminding voters of her current alignment with Trump.
The South Carolina primary is shaping up to be a high-stakes contest, where old statements and shifting loyalties may decide the outcome.
