Rep. Nancy Mace faces criticism for proposing bill restricting office to natural-born citizens

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) has proposed legislation that would bar naturalized citizens from holding any elected office in the United States, a move that has drawn criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans. Mace posted on X, stating that anyone not born in the U.S. should not hold government power. Currently, naturalized citizens are constitutionally barred only from the presidency, but they may hold other offices if they meet certain residency and citizenship requirements. Democratic Rep. Delia Ramirez pointed out that Mace's proposal could also affect Republican colleagues who were not born in the U.S., such as Florida Rep. Carlos Giménez. Critics have labeled Mace's bill as xenophobic and potentially divisive, noting that her approach risks alienating voters ahead of her campaign for governor of South Carolina. This legislation has sparked a broader debate about eligibility and fairness for naturalized citizens in American politics, highlighting tensions within both parties as Mace seeks higher office.