NEW: Nancy Mace Reportedly Eyes Challenging Lindsey Graham For SC Senate Seat

Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) has often made headlines for her independent streak and willingness to challenge the status quo. From advocating for fiscal responsibility to taking bold stances on social issues, the South Carolina congresswoman has positioned herself as a rising star in the Republican Party. But her next move may mark her most ambitious political gamble yet.

According to sources familiar with her thinking, Mace is reportedly considering a primary challenge against Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) in the 2026 election. Such a decision could set up a high-stakes showdown between two prominent South Carolina Republicans with different political styles. Graham, who has served in the Senate since 2003, has long been a fixture in national politics, balancing his role as a Republican elder statesman with his close ties to President-elect Donald Trump.

Mace’s potential candidacy could inject fresh energy—and controversy—into the race. A vocal critic of party complacency, she has not shied away from questioning Graham’s shifting alliances over the years, particularly his oscillating support for Trump. While Graham has often been seen as a pragmatic dealmaker, Mace has built her brand on a message of accountability and transparency, appealing to younger, more conservative voters.

Four informed sources revealed to Notus that Mace is eyeing a significant political move in 2026, exploring potential runs for either South Carolina governor or the Senate. This contemplation comes as Senator Lindsey Graham’s seat will be up for grabs in the same election cycle.

Three of the sources indicated that Mace is specifically interested in the governor’s seat, which has been occupied by Henry McMaster since 2017. McMaster took over from Nikki Haley after her appointment as Trump’s ambassador to the United Nations. With McMaster term-limited and unable to seek reelection in 2026, the governorship is an open race.

Rep. Ralph Norman of South Carolina, who is considering a primary challenge against Graham in 2026, told NOTUS that he’s aware of Mace’s potential gubernatorial bid, although he hasn’t received confirmation from her directly. While one insider suggested Mace might also be eyeing the Senate, the majority emphasized her likelier focus on the governorship, an attractive option given it’s an open seat and doesn’t require running against a close Trump ally.

Mace has served only since January 2021. Before her congressional role, Mace was a member of the South Carolina State House from 2018 to 2020, where she advocated for policies such as including exceptions for rape and incest in a six-week abortion ban and opposing offshore drilling off South Carolina’s coast. Her approach in office is noted for being media-savvy, often engaging actively on platforms like Twitter and focusing on gaining visibility for her legislative activities and positions​.

Despite this early competition, Graham and Mace have collaborated on legislative initiatives. In June 2023, they jointly introduced the bipartisan Protecting Older Americans Act, aiming to invalidate forced arbitration clauses that prevent age discrimination victims from seeking justice. Their political paths have occasionally diverged on key issues. For instance, in September 2022, Mace expressed her concerns about Graham’s proposed national abortion ban after 15 weeks.

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