An Illinois man is now in custody after allegedly assaulting U.S. Representative Nancy Mace in the Rayburn House Office Building on Tuesday evening. The incident, according to the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP), occurred shortly before 6 p.m., reported WGN-TV. The office of Rep. Mace swiftly reported the confrontation leading to the swift apprehension of 33-year-old James McIntyre.
Following the incident, Mace, a Republican from South Carolina, took to social media, stating she had been "physically accosted" and reiterated her commitment to "fight to protect women." "All the violence and threats keep proving our point. Women deserve to be safe. Your threats will not stop my fight for women!" Mace stated in her post. At the time of the alleged attack, the Rayburn House Office building was accessible to the public, and McIntyre had been allowed entry after completing the standard security screening.
McIntyre is now facing charges of Assaulting a Government Official. The motives behind the assault have not been officially detailed, but Rep. Mace has been the subject of controversy and protests linked to her proposed legislation aimed at restricting transgender individuals from using restrooms that correspond with their gender identity on Capitol Hill. This information was shared by ABC7 Chicago.
In response to the altercation and outpouring of concern from the public, Mace assured her constituents and followers that she would be okay, addressing her wellbeing with a post on Tuesday night. While the full details around the alleged assault remain under investigation, the charges signal a serious response from Capitol police as they navigate security and the protection of government officials amidst divisive political debates.
