Nancy Mace Leads Early Name Recognition in Potential 2026 South Carolina Governor’s Race
CC News Network | By James Seidel
CHARLESTON, S.C., — U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace is emerging as one of the most recognizable potential candidates for South Carolina’s 2026 governor’s race, according to a recent Winthrop University poll.
The poll, released March 11, 2025, found that 52% of South Carolina adults say they are either very or somewhat familiar with Mace, the current 1st Congressional District representative.
Mace’s name recognition surpasses that of South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, who has held elected office for over a decade. Despite being the son of longtime U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, Alan Wilson received only a 39% familiarity rating from survey respondents.
High Name Recognition Among Republican Voters
Scott Huffmon, director of the Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research, noted that both Mace and Wilson have a strong presence among likely Republican primary voters.
“Among Republicans who reported voting in the 2024 GOP presidential primary, Mace is recognized by more than two-thirds, while Wilson is recognized by more than half,” Huffmon stated.
“Several potential candidates already have a base to build on, rather than needing to spend heavily on name recognition.”
The poll also found that South Carolinians are least familiar with State Senator Josh Kimbrell (R-Spartanburg) and businessman John Warren, who previously ran for governor in 2018.
Why Mace? Why Now?
Electing a woman governor like Nancy Mace, a Trump ally, would mark a historic shift for South Carolina, bringing diverse leadership, strong conservative values, and a proven track record of resilience. Mace, the first woman to graduate from The Citadel’s Corps of Cadets, has consistently demonstrated toughness and leadership, making her well-equipped to govern a state that values strength and tradition.
As a Republican with deep ties to Trump’s America First agenda, she would prioritize economic growth, limited government, and law-and-order policies that resonate with South Carolina voters. Additionally, her commitment to protecting women’s rights and spaces, including her stance on single-sex facilities, showcases her dedication to preserving fairness and safety.
With her background in business, Mace understands the importance of economic policies that favor small businesses and working-class families, ensuring South Carolina continues to thrive. In a state that has never elected a female governor from either party, Mace’s leadership could break barriers while keeping South Carolina firmly rooted in its conservative principles—making her the ideal candidate to lead the Palmetto State into the future.
Mace’s Controversial Allegations Could Impact the Race
The Winthrop Poll was conducted from Feb. 21 to March 5, 2025, shortly after Mace made national headlines with her explosive House floor speech on Feb. 10.
During her speech, Mace accused her ex-fiancé of:
✔️ Physically abusing her
✔️ Secretly recording sex acts involving her and others without consent
✔️ Conspiring with business associates in alleged acts of rape and sexual misconduct
Mace also accused Attorney General Alan Wilson of failing to prosecute heinous crimes committed against her and other women by four men in South Carolina. Wilson has denied all allegations.
READ MORE: SLED Confirms Investigation into Rep. Mace’s Sexual Abuse Claims After House Floor Speech
What’s Next for the 2026 Governor’s Race?
While official filing for the 2026 gubernatorial race won’t open until next year, the poll offers an early look at voter sentiment in South Carolina.
With Mace’s growing national profile, combined with ongoing controversies surrounding her allegations, she could quickly become a frontrunner in the race—if she decides to run.
The Winthrop Poll surveyed 1,220 South Carolina adults, with a margin of error of 2.81%.
READ MORE: Mount Pleasant Councilwoman Urges Rep. Mace to Host In-Person Town Hall
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