The House Ethics Committee has launched a review into Representative Nancy Mace’s use of a reimbursement program for lodging and other expenses in Washington, following a complaint alleging she overcharged the program thousands of dollars for expenses related to her townhouse. The committee member familiar with the preliminary inquiry revealed that the full committee will consider the details of the complaint in the coming days.
Under the program, lawmakers can be reimbursed up to $34,000 a year for lodging and food expenses while on official business in Washington. However, lawmakers are not required to submit receipts for reimbursement, but are encouraged to keep them for records.
Ms. Mace was repaid over $23,000 in lodging costs in 2023, including expenses for insurance, taxes, and other monthly bills related to her townhouse. The investigation also revealed that she co-owns the home with her former fiancé, making her ineligible to seek full reimbursement for the shared home.
The scrutiny on Ms. Mace’s spending reports comes amid tensions with former staff members who recently resigned. Daniel Hanlon, her former chief of staff, launched a primary campaign against her but dropped out in March. Ms. Mace now faces Catherine Templeton in the upcoming primary election, with support from former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
Despite the controversy, Ms. Mace focused on economic issues and border security during her campaign stops in Hilton Head and Beaufort, highlighting the endorsement she received from former President Donald J. Trump. The primary election will be a test of support for Ms. Mace amidst the ongoing investigation and political challenges she faces.