Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) has sparked widespread debate on social media after showing up at Capitol Hill with her arm in a sling, following what she described as an “aggressive handshake” with a transgender rights activist.
Mace claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that she was “physically accosted” during the encounter, stating, “I got a new brace for my wrist and some ice” and expressing confidence that her injury would heal. She also noted that Capitol Police had arrested the activist, adding, “Your tr*ns violence and threats on my life will only make me double down. FAFO.”
Disputed Accounts of the Incident
The incident occurred when the activist reportedly approached Mace to advocate for transgender youth in foster care. Witnesses provided a different account from Mace’s, describing the interaction as a simple handshake. According to a reporter for The Hill, the activist greeted Mace near the doorway, shared their message, shook her hand, and returned to their seat.
In the police report, however, Mace alleged that the handshake was “aggressive” and caused her arm to “flail” for 3 to 5 seconds. She stated that she felt “intimidated” and unable to pull away.
Social Media Backlash
Critics online were quick to mock Mace for what they saw as an overreaction, dubbing her a “drama queen.” Some even quipped, “Replace your elf on a shelf with Mace in a brace.”
Mace’s use of the sling and brace has also drawn skepticism, as many questioned the severity of the incident. Others pointed out her recent legislative efforts, which include advocating for a ban on transgender individuals using restrooms matching their gender identity on Capitol Hill, suggesting her response might be politically motivated.
The Fallout
While Mace insists the encounter was threatening, the debate over her reaction highlights the growing tensions surrounding transgender rights and activism. Whether seen as an exaggerated response or a legitimate concern, the incident has kept Mace in the spotlight as discussions about LGBTQ+ rights continue to dominate the national conversation.
Critics have not held back in their response to Rep. Nancy Mace’s (R-S.C.) claims of being “physically accosted” during a handshake with a transgender rights activist, leading to a slew of sarcastic remarks and fiery commentary online.
“Warning, do not shake her hand,” quipped one critic, while another joked, “But will she ever pitch again?”
Others were more pointed in their criticism. “What a drama queen,” one person blasted. Another added, “I never again want to hear a Republican claim that Democrats are the party of victimhood as long as Nancy Mace is among them. It’s just nonstop theatrics.”
The backlash even included holiday-themed mockery. A Bluesky user joked, “Replace your elf on a shelf with Mace in a brace. Our new Rudy.”
Support and Response
Despite the ridicule, Mace has also received support from backers of her recent bathroom bill targeting transgender individuals. She claimed the incident drew a personal phone call from President-elect Donald Trump.
Mace’s spokesperson provided a statement to The Hill, saying the investigation into the incident limits what they can share. “The Congresswoman is in pain this morning, with her arm in a sling, but she’s otherwise doing well—just shaken up,” the spokesperson said. They also criticized media outlets and left-wing commentators, accusing them of “propping up misogyny instead of condemning violence.”
Mace Doubles Down
Mace herself has continued to draw attention to her injury. On Thursday, she posted a selfie of herself wearing the sling, captioned, “Just sitting here with your run-of-the-mill gentle ‘normal handshake.’”
She also took aim at the pro-trans activists involved in the incident, offering a blunt comment to a reporter: “Fuck these lunatics.”
The ongoing debate highlights the polarizing responses to Mace’s claims, with critics accusing her of overdramatizing the incident while supporters rally to her defense amid broader cultural and political battles over transgender rights.