Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) received criticism from various political corners on Sunday after she hinted at a potential Senate run to succeed the late Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) by posting a reference to “The Godfather.”
In a post to X, Mace shared a clip from “The Godfather: Part III,” quoting Al Pacino’s character Michael Corleone with the line, “Just when I thought I was out… they pull me back in….”
Earlier, Mace had used her account to pay tribute to Graham in two separate posts. These actions suggested she might be considering a bid for the Senate seat left vacant by Graham, who had represented South Carolina for over 20 years and was expected to secure a fifth term after a recent GOP primary victory.
Later, Mace expressed her interest in the Senate seat during a Fox News appearance.
“We’re all still just sitting here stunned and shocked that this has happened,” she remarked, adding, “I’m never gonna shut the door. I love the state of South Carolina. You only live once, and you know, if the people of South Carolina would like me to serve in that capacity, I’ll certainly take a look at it.”
According to South Carolina law, Gov. Henry McMaster (R) is expected to appoint someone to complete Graham’s term until January 3.
A special GOP primary is scheduled for August 11, where voters will choose a Republican nominee to compete against Annie Andrews (D) in the November general election.
Critics, including Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.), criticized Mace, describing her approach to her colleague’s death as “INSANE way.”
Another Republican also criticized Mace.
Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), who is running for reelection, labeled Mace’s post as “grotesque,” writing, “Taking glee over the potential of becoming a Senator because of a vacancy created by the sudden death of your colleague is vile. Completely unfit to serve.”
Others reminded Mace of her standing with voters in South Carolina.
In the state’s GOP gubernatorial primary last month, Mace finished in fifth place. She later conceded the race and endorsed the Republican nominee, Alan Wilson.
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