SC Congresswoman Mace says she was accosted by a ‘pro-transgender man.’ Here’s the details
South Carolina U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace says she was “physically accosted” Tuesday evening on Capitol Hill by a man who supported transgender rights, leaving her with a brace on her arm.
U.S. Capitol Police in a statement said the agency charged James McIntyre, 33, of Chicago with assaulting a governmental official following the incident.
About 6 p.m. Tuesday, Capitol Police responded to the incident in the Rayburn House Office Building and tracked down the suspect. McIntyre went through security screening prior to entering the Congressional buildings, which were open to the public.
In recent weeks, Mace has been outspoken against transgender women using women’s bathrooms. The House of Representatives has since put in a rule that say people must use the bathroom that matches with their gender at birth. Mace also has spoken out against public funding for gender affirming care for minors.
“I was physically accosted at the Capitol tonight by a pro-trans man,” Mace posted on X. “One new brace for my wrist and some ice for my arm and it’ll heal just fine. The Capitol police arrested the guy. Your trans violence and threats on my life will only make me double down.”
Capitol Police did not say whether the man was a pro-transgender demonstrator or advocate.
According to The Imprint, an independent daily news outlet focused on the nation’s child welfare and youth justice systems, McIntyre is a foster youth advocate, who was named the National Association of Social Workers, Illinois Chapter 2019 Public Citizen of the Year.
The outlet reported witnesses disputed Mace’s characterization of the interaction between McIntyre and the congresswoman. The witnesses said it was just a handshake at an event honoring the anniversary of a landmark child welfare law. Mace was a speaker at the event.
A former foster youth and advocate for LGBTQ rights in attendance, said McIntyre spoke to Mace about the number of transgender youth in foster care and said “They need your support,” The Imprint reported.
This story was originally published December 11, 2024 at 10:19 AM.
