Rep. Nancy Mace took the floor of the House on Monday night with shocking claims of rape and sex trafficking. The South Carolina Republican delivered an explosive speech, accusing a group of men of serial rape, sex trafficking, and filming their victims.
Graphic props to illustrate allegations
Mace didn’t just speak; she came prepared with visual aids. She brought handcuffs, a glass, a safe, and cameras to back her claims. The glass, she said, represented the night she was allegedly raped after drinking two vodka sodas.
Naming names in congress
In a move that stunned the chamber, Mace named her alleged attackers, even providing details like their towns. She vowed to bring down the system, declaring, “I will burn this system to the ground if I have to.”
“I’m going scorched earth today,” she added, invoking her Christian faith as she detailed her horrifying story.
Unearthed evidence: An alleged video of Mace
Mace’s speech was filled with heart-wrenching revelations. She spoke of accessing phones and digital equipment, uncovering horrifying video evidence of women and girls unknowingly filmed. Shockingly, she found herself in one of the videos.
“I zoomed in on the video, and that woman was me,” she said, revealing the unsettling discovery.
Alleged assault and discovery of hidden camera files
Mace claims the video was just part of the shocking material she found on an ex-fiancé’s phone. She alleges the phone contained over 10,000 videos from hidden cameras, including footage of her and other women.
She discovered the material after learning her ex, Patrick Bryant, had been active on a dating app, which he denied. Mace had broken off their engagement after finding out about the app and other troubling behavior.
The alleged assault
Mace recalled a 2022 incident where she blacked out after drinking. She wasn’t sure if her ex was involved but said, “I was raped that night.” The experience was traumatic, she described.
Mace goes public in the house
Mace took to the House floor to air these allegations, turning the quiet chamber into a platform for her shocking revelations. She detailed the images, locations, and people involved. Posters of properties and faces were displayed.
Law enforcement response
Mace said she provided her findings to law enforcement, but they didn’t take action. The South Carolina Attorney General’s office denied any involvement in the case. They called Mace’s accusations “categorically false” and accused her of misrepresenting their role.
Mace blasted the AG, claiming he had “kicked the can down the road” on investigating the matter. She also accused him of ignoring her concerns regarding domestic violence.
Mace’s speech didn’t just accuse; it had political consequences. The AG, Alan Wilson, is a potential rival in a future race for governor. Mace has hinted at running for governor herself, fueling speculation about the political stakes.
“I will make sure he never becomes governor,” she said.
Silence in the chamber and victim advocacy
As Mace spoke, the House chamber remained largely silent. But she wasn’t just focusing on herself. She promoted legislation for victims of abuse and illegal filming, showing support for women who have been exploited.
In a show of solidarity, a hotline for abuse victims was displayed behind her. The number, 843-212-7048, connects to a recording featuring Mace’s voice.
Mace’s commitment to justice
In her powerful speech, Mace made it clear she wasn’t backing down. She promised to continue fighting for justice for victims, even as her own experience remains unresolved.
“Arrest me if you must,” she said, referring to the handcuffs she had brought with her. “But I will keep fighting for the victims.”
Mace’s speech ended with applause from some lawmakers, signaling support for her bold move. The chamber’s reaction, however, did little to deter Mace, who made it clear she’s just getting started.
