South Carolina's political landscape is marked by controversies, including the 2000 Republican primary's smear campaign against John McCain and former Governor Mark Sanford's extramarital affair. The 2010 GOP primary involving Nikki Haley also showcased the state's affinity for dirty politics. The 2026 gubernatorial primary, open for the first time since Haley's win, is expected to revitalize this legacy, especially with Nancy Mace in the race. Mace's political persona is complex, embodying the struggles of modern Republican women, transforming from a Trump critic to a supporter, and drawing attention for her transphobic actions against colleagues.
Many people still remember the 2000 Republican presidential primary in South Carolina, when a smear campaign claiming that John McCain had fathered an illegitimate Black baby reportedly helped George W. Bush win the contest.
In 2026, South Carolina will have its first wide-open GOP gubernatorial primary since Nikki Haley's first win, suggesting potential for more dirty politics.
Nancy Mace is described as embodying the contortions of the modern Republican woman, straddling traditional femininity and conservative strength while transforming from a Trump critic to a supporter.
Mace's recent actions, including opposing transgender rights and targeting colleague Sarah McBride even before she took office, have drawn significant attention.
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