Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., was physically assaulted on Capitol grounds, reigniting the debate over transgender bathroom policies.
At a Glance
- Rep. Nancy Mace reported being “physically accosted” on U.S. Capitol grounds
- James McIntyre, 33, from Illinois, was arrested and charged with assaulting a government official
- Mace has been outspoken about transgender bathroom policies and introduced a resolution to ban transgender women from using women’s restrooms at the U.S. Capitol
- The incident occurred just before 6 p.m. in the Rayburn House Office Building
- Mace sustained minor injuries, requiring a wrist brace and ice for her arm
Capitol Assault Incident
On Tuesday evening, Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., reported being physically assaulted on U.S. Capitol grounds. The incident occurred just before 6 p.m. in the Rayburn House Office Building. Capitol Police swiftly responded, apprehending the suspect, James McIntyre, a 33-year-old man from Illinois, who had already passed through security screening. McIntyre was arrested and charged with assaulting a government official.
Mace confirmed the incident on her personal X account, describing the assailant as a “pro-tr*ns man.” She sustained minor injuries, requiring a wrist brace and ice for her arm. Despite the attack, Mace remained resolute, stating that she would recover from her injuries and that threats would only strengthen her resolve.
Mace’s Stance on Transgender Bathroom Policies
The assault comes amid Rep. Mace’s controversial stance on transgender bathroom policies. Mace has been outspoken about her opposition to allowing transgender individuals to use restrooms aligning with their gender identity. She recently introduced a measure to restrict lawmakers and House employees to using single-sex facilities corresponding to their biological sex.
“I was physically accosted tonight on Capitol grounds over my fight to protect women. Capitol police have arrested him. All the violence and threats keep proving our point. Women deserve to be safe. Your threats will not stop my fight for women!” – Rep. Nancy Mace
Mace’s resolution, H.R. 1579, aims to ensure that restroom access within the House is strictly determined by biological sex. This stance has put her at odds with transgender rights advocates, including Rep.-elect Sarah McBride, a transgender woman whom Mace opposes using women’s restrooms on Capitol Hill.
Backlash and Threats
Mace’s position on transgender bathroom policies has led to significant backlash. She claims to have received death threats and believes she is being “unfairly targeted.” The week prior to the assault, protests against Mace’s measure occurred outside a House office building, highlighting the heated nature of this debate.
Despite the controversy and threats, Mace remains steadfast in her position. She argues that her stance is about protecting women’s safety and rights. The recent physical assault, she suggests, only reinforces her belief in the necessity of her proposed policies.
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, Capitol Police have not disclosed a motive for McIntyre’s alleged attack. The incident was reported by a House member’s office, and investigations are ongoing. McIntyre had been screened before entering the building, which was open to the public at the time of the incident.
This assault on Rep. Mace has brought the contentious issue of transgender rights and bathroom policies to the forefront of political discourse once again. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact future policy decisions and discussions surrounding transgender rights and public safety in government buildings.
Sources
1. Police arrest suspect accused of assaulting Nancy Mace on Capitol grounds
2. Capitol Police arrest suspect after allegedly assaulting Rep Nancy Mace
