Context of the Primary

As South Carolina prepares for its Republican gubernatorial primary, Republican Representative Nancy Mace is making waves with her recent statements regarding Donald Trump’s endorsement of her opponent, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette. Mace expressed her belief that Trump’s backing has not significantly enhanced Evette’s appeal among grassroots conservatives. In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Mace suggested that the endorsement may have actually backfired.

Mace’s Critique of Trump’s Endorsement

“It’s not going over well for her with the grassroots, which is why she didn’t get much of a bump,” Mace told Fox News. She estimated that Evette might have experienced a modest five-point increase in support due to the endorsement. However, Mace was quick to point out that this small rise is unlikely to secure Evette’s victory in the primary.

“And she’s going to be in a runoff, and I think at that point all bets are off,” Mace added, indicating that the competitive landscape is anything but settled.

Background on the Candidates

The political landscape in South Carolina is heating up as Mace and Evette stand at odds. Mace previously voted in favor of releasing documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a decision that may have contributed to Trump’s refusal to endorse her. Despite this rift, Mace remains determined to compete vigorously against Evette.

“It’s a dog fight,” Mace declared, emphasizing her commitment to the race. “We’re in it and I’m gonna fight to the death.”

Mace’s Stance on Epstein Files

Mace’s position regarding the Epstein files is particularly poignant given her personal history as a survivor. “I knew it was on the line when I voted to release the Epstein files, and I’m a survivor,” she shared. “If the price to pay for an endorsement was to not release those files, I would never pay it.” This principled stand echoes through her campaign, appealing to voters who prioritize transparency and accountability in government.

In a broader move to bring transparency, last year, Mace joined three other Republicans in signing a petition to force a House vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act, aimed at urging the Department of Justice to make public millions of documents related to Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell.

Trump’s Endorsement of Evette

Trump’s endorsement of Evette came just days before the important primary, signaling his support for the current term-limited governor, Henry McMaster, who has also endorsed his lieutenant governor as a successor. In a statement, Trump praised Evette, stating, “Pam Evette is a good friend, fighter, and WINNER, and will be a terrific Governor of South Carolina. Pam has my Complete and Total Endorsement — SHE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!”

The Crowded Field

The Republican primary in South Carolina is shaping up to be a fierce contest. Aside from Mace and Evette, the race includes Attorney General Alan Wilson, Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., and businessman Rom Reddy. If no single candidate emerges with a majority, the top two contenders will face off in a runoff, a scenario Mace suggests could significantly alter the primary race.

“I disagree with this endorsement,” Mace remarked, reinforcing her critical stance. “And I’m going to vote for myself. I’m asking voters in South Carolina to vote for me as well on Tuesday.”

What’s Next?

As early voting gets underway in South Carolina, the anticipation mounts for the primary on June 9. The outcome may set the tone for the gubernatorial race ahead, with both Mace and Evette hoping to solidify their standing among Republican voters.

The dynamics of this election illustrate a broader trend within the Republican Party, where endorsements—particularly from high-profile figures like Trump—are not guaranteed advantages but rather indicators of the shifting loyalties and sentiments of the party’s base.