House GOPer Nancy Mace Criticizes Party Leadership Control in Congress

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), who is seeking the nomination for governor in South Carolina, has voiced sharp criticism against what she describes as an unresponsive House majority leader and a restrictive legislative process that stifles democracy.

In a guest column published Monday, Mace wrote that upon arriving in Washington five years ago, she believed she could make a difference but quickly encountered a system dominated by “entrenched leadership control,” rendering the chamber ineffective. She argued that this structure prevents lawmakers from fulfilling their elected duties and undermines accountability within the House.

Mace stated her refusal to be intimidated, citing her background as the first woman to graduate from The Citadel’s Corps of Cadets. But she suggested that these obstacles were so significant they could prompt even someone with strong convictions like herself to question: Why am I here?

Both parties share responsibility for a long-standing erosion of open debate and transparency in Congress, according to Mace. She asserted that leaders have “systematically” silenced the voices of rank-and-file members by drafting major bills behind closed doors and often removing provisions once promised.

Mace highlighted discharge petitions as one of the few remaining tools forcing leadership’s hand, but noted they are frequently ignored when wielded against influential figures or policies.

In a notable passage, Mace observed that Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi “was a more effective House speaker than any Republican this century.” The comment suggests her appreciation for Pelosi’s understanding of institutional power dynamics despite political differences.