UPDATE: A tense confrontation between Rep. Nancy Mace and airport security at Charleston International Airport on October 30, 2023, is now under scrutiny following the release of a detailed internal report, revealing a chaotic scene that escalated quickly beyond a simple mix-up.
The incident began when Mace’s escort failed to meet her arrival, after a supervisor mistakenly indicated she would be arriving in a white vehicle, when in fact she pulled up in a grey BMW. This miscommunication, according to the report from the New York Post, was compounded by Mace’s reliance on the encrypted messaging app Signal for logistical coordination—a practice not used by any other protectee—and high staff turnover among airport personnel.
As the situation unfolded, Mace reportedly bypassed established protocols at the TSA checkpoint, becoming verbally confrontational after realizing her escort was absent. Witnesses described her as already on a phone call, expressing frustration with statements like, “I shouldn’t be waiting,” and arguing that a senator would not face such delays, specifically referencing that “Tim Scott would not be f–king treated this way.”
Despite being delayed for no more than six minutes, the atmosphere became charged, with Mace berating TSA supervisors and refusing to go through the regular checkpoint lane. Eyewitness accounts detail her demanding, “You need to go and get whoever,” and directing her anger toward arriving officers, stating, “I’m sick of your s–t.” Such comments reportedly left TSA staff “visibly upset” during the encounter.
A supervisory TSA officer noted they heard Mace call police “f–king idiots” and “f–king incompetent.” The report also highlighted that none of the TSA officers were receiving pay at that time due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, adding another layer of tension to the situation.
Airport police revealed that while Mace’s team frequently requests security escorts citing safety threats, they have “never provided” documentation to substantiate those claims. Officers often arrived only to find Mace was not where her staff indicated she would be.
After the findings were published on December 9, 2023, Mace’s office issued a statement claiming the report served as an “exoneration” and emphasized her focus on pressing issues like affordability and law enforcement. However, the political ramifications extend beyond the airport incident.
Senator Tim Scott publicly condemned Mace’s behavior, stating it is “never acceptable to berate” law enforcement or staff, and noted his own commitment to maintaining decorum, saying he does not use profanity “in public or private.”
Recent polling indicates a decline in Mace’s standing within the GOP gubernatorial primary, a shift that gained momentum following this incident. How voters interpret this exchange—either as a moment of heightened frustration or a reflection of her temperament—could significantly impact her political future.
As the fallout continues, many are left questioning the implications of this incident on Mace’s campaign and public perception. Watch the video below for airport security footage showing Nancy Mace’s encounter at the checkpoint.
Watch the video here: https://t.co/LR57bEe3Uw
