Nancy Mace Faces Backlash After Heated Exchange with Trans Activist

South Carolina Congresswoman Nancy Mace was confronted by University of South Carolina student Harley Hicks, a transgender activist, during a campus event over Mace’s repeated use of the anti-trans slur 'tranny.' The exchange began with Hicks requesting an apology, which Mace refused, instead doubling down and repeating the slur multiple times while filming and later posting the interaction on social media. During the heated exchange, Hicks affirmed the term was offensive and responded with a noticeably deeper voice, after which they picked up a potted plant before leaving the stage, prompting Mace’s security team to intervene; Hicks denied any intent to threaten Mace. The event devolved into a contentious Q&A, with audience members challenging Mace on various issues, including her rhetoric on transgender topics and other political matters. The incident is part of an ongoing pattern, as Mace has faced previous criticism for her language towards transgender individuals in both public and congressional settings. The confrontation highlights ongoing tensions between Mace and transgender activists, drawing national attention to the broader debate over anti-trans rhetoric in American politics.