Nancy Mace Ignites Debate Over Transgender Restroom Policies in Congress

U.S. Capitol building under a clear blue sky.

A South Carolina congresswoman was physically accosted on Capitol grounds, reigniting the debate over transgender rights and restroom policies.

At a Glance

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) was allegedly assaulted by James McIntyre, 33, from Illinois
The incident occurred in the Rayburn House Office Building just before 6 p.m.
Mace has been vocal about her opposition to transgender women using women’s restrooms
The congresswoman recently introduced a resolution to ban transgender women from using women’s restrooms at the U.S. Capitol
Capitol Police arrested the suspect, who had passed through security screening

Assault on Capitol Grounds

Representative Nancy Mace of South Carolina reported being “physically accosted” on U.S. Capitol grounds, leading to the arrest of James McIntyre, a 33-year-old man from Illinois. The incident occurred just before 6 p.m. in the Rayburn House Office Building, a location open to the public at the time. Capitol Police swiftly apprehended McIntyre, who had passed through security screening, and charged him with assaulting a government official.

Mace, known for her outspoken stance on transgender issues, confirmed the incident on her personal X account, describing the assailant as a “pro-trans man.” Despite sustaining minor injuries that required a wrist brace and ice for her arm, the congresswoman remained resolute in her position.

Controversial Stance on Transgender Rights

Rep. Mace has been at the center of a heated debate surrounding transgender rights, particularly concerning bathroom policies. She recently introduced a measure to restrict lawmakers and House employees to using single-sex facilities corresponding to their biological sex. This move has drawn both support and criticism, with protests occurring outside a House office building in response to her proposed legislation.

“I was physically accosted tonight on Capitol grounds over my fight to protect women. Capitol police have arrested him. All the violence and threats keep proving our point. Women deserve to be safe. Your threats will not stop my fight for women!” – Rep. Nancy Mace

The congresswoman’s stance has particularly targeted Rep.-elect Sarah McBride, a transgender woman, opposing her use of women’s restrooms on Capitol Hill. Mace’s resolution, H.R. 1579, aims to mandate restroom use in the House based on biological sex, a move she claims is necessary for women’s safety.

Escalating Tensions and Safety Concerns

The incident has brought to light the escalating tensions surrounding the transgender rights debate. Mace claims she has been receiving death threats and feels “unfairly targeted” due to her position. However, she remains steadfast, stating that “violence and threats on my life will only make me double down” on her stance.

“One new brace for my wrist and some ice for my arm and it’ll heal just fine” – Nancy Mace

While the Capitol Police have not disclosed a motive for McIntyre’s alleged attack, the incident has undoubtedly intensified the already contentious debate surrounding transgender rights and the use of public facilities. As the investigation continues, lawmakers and the public alike are left to grapple with the complex issues of safety, rights, and inclusivity in shared spaces.