Nancy Mace, a Republican congresswoman from South Carolina, recently criticized law enforcement during an incident at Charleston International Airport. This confrontation drew attention due to her intense remarks aimed at airport police and TSA personnel.
Nancy Mace’s Airport Incident Details
The incident occurred on a Thursday morning, when Mace was scheduled to catch a flight. Reports indicate that officers from the Charleston County Aviation Authority Police Department were assigned to escort her to her flight. They received information that she would arrive at 6:30 AM in a white BMW. However, there was a delay, and Mace was ultimately located at 7 AM at a TSA Known Crewmember entrance.
Confrontation with Police Officers
Upon meeting the officers, Mace allegedly erupted in a tirade. According to an incident report obtained under the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act, she directed obscenities at the officers, labeling them as “fucking incompetent.” Mace also emphasized that this treatment was unacceptable for a U.S. Representative.
- Mace claimed she would not be treated this way if she were Tim Scott, suggesting a disparity in respect based on status.
- She continued to voice her grievances into her phone, potentially contacting colleagues or dictating messages during the walk to her gate.
As officers escorted her to gate B-8, Mace’s behavior reportedly continued to escalate. Witnesses, including an American Airlines gate agent, expressed disbelief over her actions, remarking that a representative should not behave in such a manner.
TSA Supervisor’s Response
The TSA supervisor on site expressed frustration over Mace’s conduct during the checkpoint encounter. He indicated that multiple TSA agents were similarly disrespected and confirmed that a report regarding her behavior would be submitted to higher authorities.
This incident has raised significant concerns about the conduct of public officials and their treatment of law enforcement personnel, especially in the wake of challenges like the ongoing government shutdown, which is affecting TSA agent pay.
