The House Ethics Committee announced Thursday it has launched a formal investigation into Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) following a referral from the Office of Congressional Ethics.
The investigation will focus on allegations that Mace improperly used official staff and resources for campaign activities, as well as potential violations of campaign finance reporting requirements. The OCE found 'substantial reason to believe' that Mace's 2024 reelection campaign coordinated with an outside super PAC, which would violate federal election law.
Mace, who has represented South Carolina's 1st congressional district since 2021, denied any wrongdoing in a statement. 'This is a politically motivated attack from a partisan committee,' she said. 'I look forward to fully cooperating and clearing my name.'
Bipartisan committee oversight
The Ethics Committee, evenly divided between five Democrats and five Republicans, voted unanimously to proceed with the investigation. Chairman Michael Guest (R-MS) declined to comment on the specifics, citing committee rules.
If the investigation finds violations, the committee could recommend sanctions ranging from a letter of reproval to a formal censure or even expulsion, though the latter is rare.
This is a politically motivated attack from a partisan committee. I look forward to fully cooperating and clearing my name.
The investigation is expected to take several months. Mace remains eligible to vote and serve on committees while the probe continues. She is seeking reelection in 2026.
