Rock Hill, South Carolina, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Dozens of protesters gathered outside Hoppin’ brewery in Rock Hill, South Carolina, to denounce U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace’s anti-LGBTQ+ views. The demonstration coincided with Mace’s campaign event where she faced backlash over her derogatory comments and history of supporting anti-transgender policies. The protests reflect larger social tensions regarding LGBTQ+ rights and have sparked heated discussions about inclusion and representation in politics.
Rock Hill Sees Protests Against Rep. Nancy Mace’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Views
Dozens of protesters gathered this past weekend outside Hoppin’ brewery in Rock Hill, South Carolina, during a gubernatorial campaign event featuring U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace. The demonstration was aimed at denouncing Mace’s anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, with protesters chanting slogans that labeled her a disgrace for what they view as hateful comments.
Inside the event, Mace spoke to a crowd of around 60 supporters while responding to the protesters’ presence. She referred to them derogatorily, criticizing them as “lunatics” and using a transphobic slur during her remarks. Mace further characterized the demonstrators as “confused” individuals who were afraid to show their faces due to wearing masks. Additionally, some attendees claimed they had registered for the event but were barred from entering the venue.
Mace has a notable history of promoting anti-transgender policies, having supported legislation aimed at enforcing restrictive bathroom usage based on biological gender and advocating for the reduction of funding for schools that acknowledge transgender pronouns. During her speech, she declared intentions to “ban pronouns” in public education settings and criticized local libraries, claiming they contained “child porn.”
During her address, Mace reiterated her support for former President Donald Trump, promising to veto any educational funding directed towards institutions that do not adhere to traditional gender definitions. Tensions within the room heightened when a protester posed a question concerning Trump’s executive orders, leading to disruption from Mace’s supporters.
In response to backlash surrounding her use of a slur, Mace stated that the term “tr*nny” was not offensive and accused the critics of misinterpreting her comments. Her recent announcement of her gubernatorial candidacy on August 4 has set the stage for a competitive Republican primary scheduled for June 2026, further polarizing opinions within the community.
Background Context
The protests highlight ongoing social tensions in South Carolina regarding LGBTQ+ rights and the treatment of transgender individuals in politics. Mace’s remarks and actions have drawn both fervent support and significant opposition, reflecting a broader national conversation about inclusion and the rights of marginalized communities.
As local journalism continues to cover critical issues affecting citizens, the need for community engagement and support has become increasingly important. Understanding the complexity of these social issues is essential, as they impact not only individuals but also the fabric of local and national politics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the protests outside Mace’s campaign event?
Protesters were objecting to Rep. Mace’s known anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, particularly her remarks about transgender issues and her calls for policy changes affecting LGBTQ+ rights.
What specific actions or policies has Rep. Mace previously supported?
Rep. Mace has endorsed legislation restricting bathroom access for transgender individuals and has pushed for defunding schools that recognize transgender pronouns.
What is the significance of Mace’s gubernatorial candidacy?
Nancy Mace’s candidacy represents a significant shift in the political landscape as she runs in a competitive Republican primary set for June 2026, capturing the attention of both supporters and opponents.
How does this event reflect larger social issues?
This protest underscores the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in South Carolina and across the United States, indicating the polarized opinions surrounding these relevant topics in modern politics.
Event Highlights
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Hoppin’ Brewery, Rock Hill, SC |
| Event Type | Gubernatorial Campaign Event with Rep. Nancy Mace |
| Protesters | Dozens demonstrating against anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric |
| Mace’s Remarks | Characterized protesters as lunatics and used a derogatory slur |
| Key Policies Supported | Anti-trans bathroom legislation, defunding schools recognizing transgender pronouns |
| Candidacy Announcement Date | August 4, 2023 |
| Next Election | Republican Primary in June 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Nancy Mace Hosts Town Hall to Discuss Gubernatorial Candidacy
Protests Erupt During Nancy Mace’s Gubernatorial Campaign Event
Nancy Mace Launches Gubernatorial Campaign in Rock Hill
Protests Erupt During Nancy Mace’s Gubernatorial Town Hall
Poll Reveals Mixed Opinions on Trump and Musk in SC
Additional Resources
- SC Daily Gazette: Columbia Repeals Ban on Conversion Therapy
- Lavender Magazine: SC Venue Hosts Free LGBTQ+ Weddings
- Live 5 News: First LGBTQIA Center Opens in North Charleston
- The State: Politics and Government News
- Advocate: Nancy Mace Speaks Out
- Wikipedia: LGBTQ+ Rights in the United States
- Google Search: LGBTQ Rights USA
- Google Scholar: LGBTQ Policies in USA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: LGBTQ Civil Rights
- Google News: LGBTQ Politics South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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