Nancy Mace remade herself as an anti-trans culture warrior. Trump chose her opponent for governor

Nancy Mace has reshaped her public image from a moderate Republican to a MAGA-aligned culture warrior focused on anti-trans issues. Her stance has grown more hardline, including confrontations and controversial comments in public settings. Despite this, President Donald Trump chose not to endorse her in South Carolina's gubernatorial primary, instead backing Pam Evette. Trump stated loyalty mattered more than Mace's past positions, signaling a strategic vote in a crowded field. The piece traces Mace's trajectory, noting earlier positions that supported transgender rights before she shifted toward tougher cultural stances. It notes Trump previously backed Mace in 2022 and again when she sought reelection in 2024, highlighting shifting alliances. Trafalgar Group polls described Evette's rising support after the endorsement, with Mace finishing fifth in the field. The analysis shows endorsements can strongly influence political outcomes, especially in competitive primaries.