Copyright Greenville News
U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace says that she was subjected to "inappropriate surveillance and targeting" by Charleston International Airport staff. Mace, a Republican who represents South Carolina's 1st District and is a candidate for governor, verbally clashed with Charleston airport security and Transportation Security Administration staff on Oct. 30. The incident stemmed from airport security failing to escort Mace when she arrived at the airport for a flight. The congresswoman later said she was defamed by the airport when it released what she called a "misleading" police report of the incident and has threatened to sue the airport. More: Nancy Mace says she'll file lawsuit against Charleston airport The saga continued on Nov. 11 with Mace issuing a statement saying she received "credible information" that she was targeted by the TSA and Charleston airport. Mace said she has heard from current and former airport employees that she was subjected to mandatory surveillance by airport security every time she was at the airport and that TSA attempted to block her from using the known crew member checkpoint. The Greenville News has reached out to Charleston airport officials about Mace's claims but have not received a response. While airport officials have not commented on the ongoing situation with the congresswoman, dozens of lawmakers and elected officials wrote a joint letter following the initial incident affirming their support for Charleston International. "We are proud of Charleston International Airport and the professionals who support it," the letter stated. "Their work strengthens our community, reflects the best of the Lowcountry, and ensures that our region remains welcoming, safe, and connected." More: SC lawmakers rally for airport in response to Mace lawsuit threats Mace said in the Nov. 11 statement that no American, "let along a sitting member of Congress," should be subjected to harassment for doing their job. "This appears to be yet another example of the weaponization of government agencies against a conservative," Mace said. "If these allegations are true, it represents a disturbing abuse of power and a clear case of political retaliation." The congresswoman is calling on airport security and TSA members to come forward if they have information on the matter. Bella Carpentier covers the South Carolina legislature, state, and Greenville County politics. Contact her at bcarpentier@gannett.com
