Republican Representative Nancy Mace reports being physically assaulted on Capitol grounds, sparking controversy amidst her stance on transgender bathroom policies.
At a Glance
- Rep. Nancy Mace was allegedly assaulted by James McIntyre, 33, from Illinois, at the Capitol.
- The incident occurred in the Rayburn House Office Building, with the suspect arrested and charged.
- Mace has been outspoken about transgender bathroom policies and recently introduced a resolution to restrict access.
- The congresswoman sustained minor injuries but vows to continue her fight for women’s safety.
Assault at the Capitol
In a shocking turn of events, Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) reported being “physically accosted” on U.S. Capitol grounds just before 6 p.m. in the Rayburn House Office Building. The suspect, identified as James McIntyre, 33, from Illinois, was swiftly arrested by Capitol Police and charged with assaulting a government official. This incident has thrust the ongoing debate about transgender restroom policies into the spotlight once again.
Rep. Mace, known for her vocal opposition to policies allowing transgender individuals to use restrooms corresponding with their gender identity, confirmed the assault on her personal X account. She described the assailant as a “pro-tr*ns man,” though Capitol Police have not disclosed a motive for McIntyre’s alleged attack.
Mace’s Stance on Transgender Policies
The incident comes in the wake of Mace’s recent introduction of a controversial measure, H.R. 1579, which aims to restrict lawmakers and House employees to using single-sex facilities corresponding to their biological sex. This move has ignited heated debates and protests, with demonstrations occurring outside a House office building just last week.
“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
Mace’s efforts have included opposing Rep.-elect Sarah McBride, a transgender woman, from using women’s restrooms on Capitol Hill. The South Carolina representative has been steadfast in her position, despite receiving death threats and claiming she is being “unfairly targeted.”
Aftermath and Resolve
Following the assault, Mace sustained minor injuries, requiring a wrist brace and ice for her arm. However, she remains undeterred, stating that threats and violence will only strengthen her resolve. “One new brace for my wrist and some ice for my arm and it’ll heal just fine,” Mace declared, adding that “violence and threats on my life will only make me double down.”
“I was physically accosted tonight on Capitol grounds by a pro-trans man.” – Rep. Nancy Mace
The incident has reignited discussions about safety and security on Capitol grounds, especially given that McIntyre had passed through security screening before the alleged assault. It also underscores the intense emotions surrounding the debate on transgender rights and access to public facilities, a topic that continues to divide lawmakers and the public alike.
Sources
1.Capitol Police arrest suspect after allegedly assaulting Rep Nancy Mace
2. Capitol Police arrest suspect after allegedly assaulting Rep Nancy Mace
