• Nancy Mace officially launched her campaign for South Carolina governor at The Citadel.
• She portrays herself as "Trump in high heels" and aims to secure his endorsement.
• The Republican primary features several candidates, including Attorney General Alan Wilson and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette.
• Mace's platform emphasizes criminal justice reform, tax cuts, and protecting children and women.
• She has a controversial past, including sexual misconduct allegations against her ex-fiancé and accusations against Wilson.

On Monday, Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) officially announced her run for governor of South Carolina, making her intentions clear during a launch event at The Citadel, where she is notable for being the first woman to graduate from the Corps of Cadets in 1999. “I’m running for governor because South Carolina doesn’t need another empty suit and needs a governor who will fight for you and your values,” Mace stated, indicating her determination to lead differently than what she perceives as ineffective politics in the state, according to The Hill and HuffPost.

Mace’s announcement positions her in a crowded Republican primary field that includes notable candidates such as Attorney General Alan Wilson, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, and Rep. Ralph Norman. Mace believes she is uniquely qualified to carry out Trump’s agenda in South Carolina, claiming, “I’m Trump in high heels,” as she works to appeal to the strong base of Trump supporters in the state, as reported by Reuters and India Times.

During her campaign, Mace has emphasized a platform focused on ending the state’s income tax, enhancing school choice, and criminal justice reform. Furthermore, she aims to prioritize the wellbeing and protection of women and children, reflecting her commitment to more conservative policies, shared Newsweek and CBS News.

Mace's campaign launch follows her previous criticisms of Trump after the January 6 Capitol riots, yet she has since aligned herself closely with his agenda, as indicated by her efforts to gain his support for her gubernatorial bid. "No one will work harder to get his attention and endorsement," she asserted, reflecting her strategic positioning within the GOP landscape, according to LA Times and Independent.

Mace has also faced controversies, notably involving allegations of sexual misconduct made against her ex-fiancé, which she publicly addressed but the accused has denied. This personal aspect of her campaign has drawn attention, indicating her intent to fight for victims' rights alongside her political ambitions, as discussed by HuffPost and India Times.