UPDATE: A detailed internal report has just revealed the chaotic events surrounding Rep. Nancy Mace at Charleston International Airport on October 30, 2023. The incident escalated from a simple logistical error into a heated confrontation with TSA and police, raising significant questions about her conduct and the impact on her political career.
Initial reports indicate that Mace’s airport escort was not present upon her arrival, leading to a mix-up that spiraled out of control. The review states a supervisor mistakenly relayed that Mace would arrive in a white vehicle, while she pulled up in a grey BMW, causing a timing conflict. This minor issue was compounded by Mace’s preference for coordinating logistics through the encrypted app Signal, a method not typically used by other protectees, along with ongoing staff turnover that has hindered communication.
The report clearly indicates that Mace’s own actions contributed to the situation’s escalation. As she approached security, she was reportedly on a call, expressing her frustration with comments like, “I shouldn’t be waiting,” and, “This is always happening.” Witnesses noted she complained that a senator would not face the same delay, explicitly mentioning that Tim Scott would not be treated this way.
Despite only being delayed by approximately six minutes, the tension in those moments was palpable. The report details how Mace berated a TSA supervisor, refused to comply with checkpoint procedures, and demanded immediate assistance. A few notable quotes from the report include Mace stating, “I’m sick of your s–t,” directed at law enforcement officers who arrived to escort her.
A supervisory TSA officer reported hearing Mace call airport police “f–king idiots” and “f–king incompetent,” leaving staff visibly shaken by the encounter. The report also highlights that none of the TSA officers were being compensated at the time due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Adding to the complexity, airport police revealed that Mace’s team regularly requests security escorts citing safety threats but has “never provided” documentation to back these claims. Officers have often arrived only to find Mace was not where her staff indicated she would be.
In the wake of the report’s release, Mace’s office characterized the findings as an “exoneration,” asserting her focus remains on key issues such as affordability and law enforcement. However, the political ramifications of this incident are significant. Senator Tim Scott publicly criticized Mace, stating it is “never acceptable to berate” law enforcement or staff, emphasizing that he does not use profanity “in public or private.”
Recent polling indicates Mace’s standing in the GOP gubernatorial primary may be slipping, a trend that began following this incident. Voter perception of this encounter—whether as a moment of frustration or a reflection of her temperament—could have lasting implications for her political future.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. Watch the security footage of the incident here: [Airport security footage](https://t.co/LR57bEe3Uw).
