A Trailblazing Politician

Nancy Mace: South Carolina's First Female Representative

A Trailblazing Politician

Nancy Ruth Mace

Born on December 4, 1977, Nancy Ruth Mace is an American politician who made history as the first woman to graduate from The Citadel in 1999. She later became the first Republican woman to represent South Carolina's 1st congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Early Life and Education

Mace was raised in Goose Creek, South Carolina, by a retired Army General and a retired school teacher. She graduated from the College of Charleston in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts in political science. After her historic graduation from The Citadel, she went on to earn a Juris Doctorate from the Charleston School of Law.

Political Career

Mace began her political career as a Charleston County Councilwoman in 2012. She was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 2014 and served until 2018. In 2018, she won the Republican nomination for South Carolina's 1st congressional district and defeated the Democratic incumbent, Joe Cunningham, in the general election.

In the U.S. House of Representatives

As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Mace has been a vocal advocate for conservative values and economic growth. She is a member of the Armed Services, Education and Labor, and Veterans' Affairs committees.

In 2022, Mace was one of the Republicans who opposed Kevin McCarthy's bid to become Speaker of the House. She has also been critical of the Biden administration's policies, particularly on immigration and border security.

Personal Life

Mace is married to Michael McNamara, a former Marine Corps officer. They have two children together. She is an avid runner and enjoys spending time with her family.