Rep. Nancy Mace Responds to Allegations of Online Manipulation
Rep. Nancy Mace, a Republican from South Carolina, is addressing accusations that she instructed her staff to create fake social media accounts to enhance her online presence. Mace dismissed these claims as the product of "bitter exes" with no credible evidence to support their allegations.
“When anonymous former staffers provide information, it essentially means, ‘We don’t have anything solid, so we turned to disgruntled former employees,’” Mace stated, referring to a recent article by Wired magazine that brought these claims to light.
The article sourced ex-aides and consultants, including political advisor Wesley Donehue, who alleged that Mace used fake accounts and automated bots to promote her political messages. However, Mace, who chairs the House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, maintained her stance.
"I don’t need fake accounts to tell the truth," she said. "I communicate directly from my real account, under my own name. That’s where accountability begins."
In a time when often unidentified sources dominate news stories, Mace embraces her reputation for directness. "I will keep sharing uncomfortable truths," she said, adding that if her statements make people uncomfortable, it means they are finally paying attention.
Mace has made a name for herself advocating for women’s rights, particularly in matters concerning sexual assault. Recently, she criticized a transgender activist accused of threatening her life, arguing that such threats go beyond protest; they are criminal acts.
In her role, Mace believes that her personal experience in technology gives her an edge in crafting informed policies. "I understand technology’s complexities better than most in Washington,” she explained, highlighting her self-taught background in coding. "We are focusing on protecting data and countering Big Tech censorship."
She believes her practical skills help her identify both software issues and political inconsistencies. "Writing code helps you recognize flaws—whether in tech or in politics," she remarked.
When asked how she keeps her office aligned with conservative values such as accountability and leadership, Mace was clear. "I lead with facts. I represent the interests of my constituents, and I don’t hide behind consultants or sanitized statements," she said. "Being accountable means addressing tough issues head-on, standing your ground, and not shying away from conflict, even if it makes some in the media uncomfortable."
Regarding a viral video showing what looked like a collection of burner phones, Mace joked, "That’s about as many burner phones as Wired has credible sources for this so-called ‘burner-gate.’"
Mace views the ongoing controversy as overblown, asserting that it won’t detract her from her legislative duties and commitment to her district. As a trailblazer, she is the first woman to graduate from South Carolina’s Citadel and the first woman elected to represent Charleston in Congress.
