SC’s Mace Criticizes Police at Charleston Airport Before Morning Flight

U.S. Representative Nancy Mace faced criticism for her behavior at Charleston International Airport on Thursday morning. The incident occurred as she prepared for a flight to Chicago scheduled for 7:30 a.m. According to a police report and accompanying surveillance footage, Mace verbally berated airport police and TSA agents at the facility.

Nancy Mace’s Early Morning Arrival

Mace was set to meet airport officers at 6:30 a.m. in the ticketing vestibule. Police were informed that she was running 10 to 15 minutes late. A text message sent by Mace’s campaign indicated she would arrive curbside in a silver BMW. However, surveillance footage shows her arriving in a gray or silver vehicle at 6:51 a.m.

Encounter with Airport Security

After parking, Mace walked to the terminal and waited at a TSA security checkpoint for several minutes. Three airport police officers arrived to escort her to the boarding area. During the escort, Mace was reportedly loud and used profanity, possibly dictating a message into her phone. The police report highlighted her complaints about the handling of her situation.

• Mace described officers as “f*g incompetent.”
• She claimed she was being treated unfairly compared to other officials, including Sen. Tim Scott.
• The police noted that Mace’s behavior included derogatory comments toward security personnel.

The Response from TSA and Mace’s Camp

A TSA supervisor commented on Mace’s demeanor, stating it was upsetting, especially considering the ongoing federal government shutdown affecting TSA pay. He expressed intent to report Mace’s behavior to his superiors.

Mace’s director of operations, Cameron Morabito, emphasized the congresswoman’s safety. Morabito mentioned that threats against her have heightened recently and asserted that their security measures are based on legitimate concerns.

Social Media Reactions

Before the police report was made public, Mace took to social media to address the incident. At 1:38 p.m., she refuted claims that TSA prevented her from access, calling it a “silly rumor.” Later, at 4:39 p.m., she confirmed that the entrance she used is standard for all Members of Congress.

This incident sparked discussion around the treatment of public officials in airports and the expected behavior from them under high-pressure situations. It also highlights the challenges airport security faces amid personnel shortages due to federal funding issues.