Controversial Rep. Nancy Mace’s Use Of Reimbursement Program Questioned By House Ethics Committee

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 27: Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) speaks to reporters as she leaves the U.S. Capitol Building on January 27, 2023 in Washington, DC. The House of Representatives completed their last series of votes before a weekend recess. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Rep. Nancy Mace‘s (R-South Carolina) use of a reimbursement program is under review by the House Ethics Committee. The program allows House members to be reimbursed for business expenses in Washington, D.C., including food and lodging. Members may be repaid up to $34,000 a year. Receipts are not required as proof of costs but are encouraged.

A panel is investigating Mace’s reports to determine whether the South Carolina representative overcharged the program and misused its funding. In 2023, records show Mace was reimbursed over $23,000 for her Washington townhouse alone. Documents indicate the money covered insurance, bills and taxes, which is against the program’s terms.

The House committee has not voted on whether Mace’s spending warrants an official investigation. Mace is one of several other lawmakers whose reimbursement almost meets the maximum cost. Mace is only a shared owner of the townhouse, so she cannot receive full repayment.

Mace has been a controversial member of Congress, accused by members of both parties of constantly seeking press attention.

Mace also faces further pressure from the resignation of most of her staff. Mace’s former chief of staff, Daniel Hanlon, launched a campaign to remove Mace from office but dropped in March. Other former staff members referred to Mace as “delusional” and a “joke.” In May, Mace later accused former staffers of “sabotaging” her.