Congresswoman Nancy Mace Vows to Arm Herself After Colleague's Violent Attack

In a significant and highly personal declaration, Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) has announced her decision to begin carrying a firearm for personal protection, citing the recent violent assault on fellow Representative Angie Craig (D-Minn.) as the catalyst for her resolve. Mace's decision underscores a growing concern among lawmakers regarding their personal safety and the fundamental right to self-defense, particularly in an increasingly volatile political landscape.

Speaking passionately about her newfound commitment, Mace articulated that the attack on Rep.

Craig served as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by public figures. While emphasizing her belief in the Second Amendment, she made it clear her decision is rooted in a pragmatic need for security, stating she would carry her weapon 'where allowed by law.' For Mace, this isn't merely a political statement but a deeply personal one, shaped by her own harrowing experiences.

The incident involving Rep.

Angie Craig sent shockwaves through Capitol Hill. Craig was brutally assaulted in the elevator of her Washington D.C. apartment building by an assailant who struck her multiple times. While authorities later stated the attack did not appear to be politically motivated, the sheer violence of the event resonated profoundly with many, including Mace, who saw it as a chilling example of how quickly personal safety can be compromised.

Mace, a survivor of sexual assault, has often spoken candidly about her past.

Her personal history lends a powerful, poignant dimension to her stance on self-defense. For her, carrying a firearm is not about aggression but about empowerment and ensuring she possesses the means to protect herself should she ever face a threat. It's a testament to her belief that individuals, especially those who have experienced trauma, should have the right and ability to safeguard their own lives.

Her decision also highlights a broader conversation about the security of elected officials.

As threats against lawmakers continue to rise, the question of personal protection becomes ever more pressing. Mace’s bold move serves as a powerful message, not just about gun rights, but about the deeply human instinct for survival and the conviction that, in uncertain times, the power to defend oneself is an inalienable right.