Rep. Nancy Mace (R‑S.C.) is under scrutiny by the House Ethics Committee. The inquiry stems from a complaint her ex‑fiance reportedly filed regarding her congressional reimbursements. Mace, who is also running for governor of South Carolina, called the allegations false and politically motivated.
The case has drawn national attention because it combines politics, personal disputes, and congressional rules. The committee has not confirmed any wrongdoing and will announce the next steps by March 2, 2026.
Who is Nancy Mace?
Nancy Mace represents South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District. She made history as the first woman to graduate from The Citadel’s Corps of Cadets. In 2020, she became the first Republican woman elected to Congress from South Carolina, defeating an incumbent.
Mace is known for her outspoken style and conservative stances on fiscal policy, culture, and women’s rights. Her run for governor has brought added attention to her political and personal life.
Who is Patrick Bryant, Nancy Mace’s Ex‑Fiance?
Patrick Bryant is Mace’s former fiance. Their breakup has been highly publicised due to disputes over allegations of misconduct. Mace has accused Bryant and other men of being sexual predators.
Bryant, in turn, has filed a lawsuit against Mace, claiming she fabricated the allegations. Their ongoing legal and personal conflicts have now intersected with congressional ethics oversight.
What is the Matter of Triggering a ‘Fictitious Probe’?
Nancy Mace says Bryant provided “fictitious documents” to the Office of Congressional Conduct (OCC). She claims these documents are the basis of the ethics inquiry. In her November 21, 2025, statement, Mace said, “Bryant is terrified he might go to jail. And if he does, my female constituents will be safer for it. This just goes to show how broken the system is when a predator can viciously go after his victims in this way and is permitted to do so regardless of the facts.”
Nancy Mace insists the complaint is not based on actual violations but on Bryant’s personal vendetta.
Why House Ethics Committee Is Investigating Nancy Mace?
The House Ethics Committee confirmed the matter was transmitted to the panel by the OCC on December 2, 2025. The specifics of the allegations have not been made public.
The committee’s role is to review whether Mace followed congressional rules, particularly regarding reimbursements for lodging and office expenses.
Why the Inquiry Began
The inquiry appears to be linked to lodging expenses claimed by Mace while she served in Congress. She shared a townhouse with Bryant at one point, and his complaint allegedly challenged how she claimed reimbursements.
Lawmakers can expense lodging while on official business, but the amounts must align with rules. Opponents say the inquiry could expose discrepancies, while Mace says she followed the rules.
What the Ethics Committee Says?
On January 16, 2026, the House Ethics Committee announced it is reviewing an issue about Mace that was sent to the panel by the Office of Congressional Conduct on December 2, 2025. The committee has not disclosed specific details of the allegations.
Importantly, the panel emphasised that a referral or extension does not mean Mace has violated ethics rules or broken the law. The committee said it will reveal its next steps by March 2, 2026.
