News Summary
U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace held a town hall exclusively for Dataw Island residents, prompting protests outside from those demanding broader public participation. While many attendees supported her views, others criticized her approach, questioning her commitment to including all constituents. Mace addressed various issues, including Social Security and foreign affairs, and faced backlash over her past confrontations with constituents.
Beaufort: U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace Faces Backlash at Dataw Island Town Hall
U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace held her first in-person town hall of 2025 on April 23 at Dataw Island, a private gated community in South Carolina. The event was exclusively for members of the Dataw Island Owners Association, limiting general public access.
Approximately 200 attendees welcomed Mace, while around two dozen protesters demonstrated outside the venue on Sea Island Parkway. The protests stemmed from criticism of Mace not permitting broader public participation in a meeting labeled as a town hall.
- Population of Dataw Island: Approximately 1,400 residents, with a median age of 73.
- Mace’s election performance: She won decisively in her last election in Dataw, receiving 64% of the vote against Democratic opponent Michael B. Moore.
Attendee Wendy Stine criticized Mace, claiming she was hiding behind the gated community and questioning who represents those outside it. Before her address, Mace spoke with reporters, responding combatively to criticism for the late timing of her first town hall.
During her speech, Mace expressed support for the Trump administration and addressed legislative issues, including immigration and military support. Some attendees endorsed her views, while others walked out during her remarks on foreign affairs and university funding.
- Post-speech engagement: Mace answered around 20 submitted questions, including topics related to Social Security benefits.
- Support for Social Security: She reiterated her plan to eliminate taxes on Social Security, which received applause from part of the audience.
- Views on Ukraine: Mace emphasized the need for peace negotiations, voicing concerns about potential American troop deployments.
While many attendees generally supported Mace’s policies, her past confrontational behavior and remarks during public engagements drew criticism. Mace faced backlash previously, notably from a viral confrontation with a constituent in a store.
The demand for a more inclusive town hall remains strong, with calls for future events to be accessible to the entire public. Mace’s office confirmed receipt of an invitation for another town hall on Hilton Head Island, indicating her intent to engage further with constituents.
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