Official statement or report from the U.S. Capitol Police

Witnesses Dispute Rep. Nancy Mace's Assault Claim; Trans Activist Arrested at Capitol

Dec 11, 2024, 04:02 PM

U.S. Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) reported that she was assaulted on Capitol grounds Tuesday evening by a 33-year-old man from Illinois, identified as James McIntyre, whom she described as a "pro-trans man" and "trans rights activist." The incident occurred inside the Rayburn House Office Building during a foster youth event. Mace stated that the suspect grabbed her and shouted about "trans youth," resulting in injuries that required her to wear an arm brace. Capitol Police arrested McIntyre on suspicion of assaulting a government official. However, multiple witnesses, including members of the foster advocacy group present at the event, dispute Mace's account. They claim that McIntyre merely shook hands with Mace and asked her about her support for transgender rights in what appeared to be an amicable greeting. Lisa Dickson, an advocate at the event, remarked that Mace had told participants it was a safe space but then had one of them arrested for simply shaking her hand. The U.S. Capitol Police are investigating the incident. Former President Donald Trump called Mace to check on her after the event. The incident comes after Mace introduced a resolution last month to ban transgender women from female restrooms in federal buildings.