By Trendsetter Tribune 
South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace is setting the record straight. After a explosive New York Magazine profile alleged “excessive” alcohol and marijuana use during her first term, the Republican congresswoman took to social media to reveal a lifelong health battle that she says makes those claims physically impossible.
In a candid video posted to X, Mace dismissed the allegations as “fake news” and “wild takes,” introducing the public to a genetic condition most have never heard of: hemochromatosis.
The Medical Defense: Living with Hemochromatosis
Mace explained that her body suffers from a disorder that causes it to absorb dangerously high levels of iron. According to the congresswoman, this condition mandates a lifestyle of strict sobriety.
“I can only get rid of iron by bleeding it out. So I have a lot of phlebotomies. Any and all alcohol makes it worse,” Mace stated. “Nancy Mace isn’t an alcoholic. Nor do I ‘imbibe.’”
What is Hemochromatosis?
- The Cause: A genetic condition (affecting about 1 in 200 Americans) that causes iron to build up in organs like the heart, liver, and pancreas.
- The Risk: If left untreated, it can lead to organ failure, diabetes, and heart disease.
- The Treatment: Regular “therapeutic phlebotomy”—essentially drawing blood to reduce iron levels.
Mace used the platform to urge those of Northern European descent to check their ferritin levels, framing her response as a moment of health advocacy rather than a political scandal. “No scandal. No story. Just science,” she added.
The Allegations: 2 A.M. Tequila Runs?
The health reveal comes as a direct rebuttal to a New York Magazine profile featuring claims from several former staffers. The report painted a picture of a chaotic office environment, alleging:
- Late-Night Errands: Claims that a scheduler received 2:00 a.m. calls to deliver bottles of tequila.
- Substance Use: Allegations from unnamed sources that her use of alcohol and marijuana was “excessive.”
- Burner Accounts: Accusations that Mace directed staff to defend her on Reddit and engage with online “hotness rankings.”
Mace’s director of operations, Cameron Morabito, fiercely defended the congresswoman, calling the claims “defamatory” and “ridiculous.”
A Campaign Under Scrutiny
The timing of these allegations is critical. Mace is currently a top contender in the 2026 South Carolina gubernatorial race and is also navigating an ongoing House Ethics Committee review.
The committee recently extended its probe into Mace—reportedly involving lodging expenses and reimbursement practices—though they emphasized that an extension does not imply any wrongdoing. Mace has previously claimed the ethics referral was triggered by “fictitious documents” submitted by a former fiancé.
What’s Next for Nancy Mace?
As the primary for the governor’s seat approaches in June 2026, Mace appears to be leaning into her “outsider” brand, portraying the media scrutiny as a coordinated effort to “bury” her for not following the status quo.
Whether the medical explanation will satisfy her critics remains to be seen, but Mace is clearly betting on “science” to clear her name.