Ethics Probe Launched into Rep. Nancy Mace Over Housing Expenses

The House Ethics Committee has formally initiated an investigation into Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC). The probe centers on allegations that she systematically overcharged a federal reimbursement program intended to cover lodging costs for lawmakers while in Washington, D.C.

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The Core Allegations

The investigation stems from a referral by the nonpartisan Office of Congressional Conduct (OCC), which claims Mace may have violated House rules and federal law.

• The “Profit” Margin: The OCC alleges that between early 2023 and late 2024, Mace sought $9,500 in reimbursements beyond her actual out-of-pocket costs.
• The Ownership Split: While Mace co-owned her D.C. townhouse with her former fiancé, she reportedly held only a 28% stake. Investigators claim she billed the government for the full monthly expenses rather than her proportional share.
• Data Discrepancies: In some instances, the reimbursements allegedly dwarfed the actual bills. In one highlighted month, she reportedly collected $3,196 for expenses that totaled only $1,951.97.

Mace’s Defense: “Political Sabotage”

Representative Mace hasn’t pulled any punches in her response, framing the investigation as a weaponized personal and political attack.

“This entire probe is based on fictitious documents provided by a disgruntled former partner,” Mace’s legal team stated, pointing toward her former fiancé as the source of the data.

Her defense rests on three pillars:

1. Personal Vendetta: She claims the OCC was misled by “fraudulent” evidence provided by her ex.
2. Election Interference: Mace, who is currently running for Governor of South Carolina, argues the timing is designed to derail her campaign.
3. Procedural Overreach: Her attorneys maintain that the OCC ignored rebuttal evidence and that Mace followed the reimbursement guidelines as she understood them.

Current Status

The House Ethics Committee is now in a “Phase II” review, which grants them the authority to issue subpoenas and compel testimony. While Mace has largely refused to cooperate with the OCC’s initial inquiry, the Ethics Committee has a broader reach to uncover the paper trail.

Note: An investigation by the Committee does not automatically imply guilt; it simply means there is enough evidence to warrant a formal look.