Nancy Mace Breaks From GOP: “Pelosi Was More Effective Than Any Republican This Century”

Republican Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina sharply criticized her own party in a scathing op-ed published in The New York Times, arguing that former Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi was “a more effective House speaker than any Republican this century.” Mace acknowledged she “agreed with her on essentially nothing,” but said Pelosi’s ability to wield power — to pass major legislation decisively and deliver for her coalition — stands in stark contrast to GOP leadership today.

Mace faulted the current House Republican majority for governing timidly. When Democrats had control, she wrote, they “ram through the most progressive policies they can” and deliver results. But when Republicans hold power, she argued, they become “petrified of losing it,” settling for only “the most moderate policies” and letting key promises fade. This hesitation has, in her view, rendered the House “restrictive and ineffective,” producing “control with barely any results.”

Mace, who has announced a 2026 campaign for governor of South Carolina framed the op-ed as a warning. With Republicans controlling the House, Senate, and White House, she wrote, the party now has “a governing trifecta.” But without bold legislation tackling border security, affordability, health care, and public safety, she fears voters will punish them in the next midterm elections.

Her critique underscores growing unrest inside the GOP, especially among lawmakers concerned about leadership failures and the party’s long-term political standing. Whether her warning will provoke a course change or deepen internal divisions, remains to be seen.

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