An eyewitness to an incident involving an Illinois man and Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday claims the only physical contact between them was a simple handshake. However, Mace reported that she was “physically accosted” by this man, who she said was protesting her comments, which some have called transphobic.
Mace shared her side of the story on social media, saying that the man, who she described as “pro-trans,” physically attacked her. She later appeared in public wearing her arm in a sling, suggesting she had been injured. But witnesses at the scene say this account isn’t accurate. They insist that the only interaction was a handshake and that Mace walked away from it unharmed.
The incident occurred outside a House of Representatives office building after an event celebrating the anniversary of an important child welfare law. Mace had given a speech at the event, which brought together advocates and foster care alumni. Among those present was James McIntyre, a former foster child and well-known advocate for children’s rights.
Eyewitnesses, including three people who spoke to The Imprint, said McIntyre did nothing more than shake Mace’s hand and ask her to support the rights of transgender people. They were shocked when Capitol Police arrested McIntyre later that evening.
One advocate, Lisa Dickson, criticized Mace on social media. She said it was disappointing that Mace assured the attendees the event was a “safe space” but then had someone arrested simply for asking her a question. Dickson said McIntyre’s arrest sent the wrong message, especially to young people in foster care.
Reports suggest that after the handshake, one of Mace’s aides returned to the reception and asked McIntyre for his name and if he would repeat what he said to the congresswoman. Not long after, Capitol Police stopped McIntyre, brought him back to the building, and arrested him.
McIntyre was charged with assaulting a government official, a serious crime under U.S. law. The U.S. Capitol Police later released a statement confirming the arrest. They said the incident happened around 6:00 p.m. in the Rayburn House Office Building, which was open to the public at the time. McIntyre had passed through security before entering the building.
Elliot Hinkle, an LGBTQ advocate who attended the event, said the arrest was troubling. Hinkle explained that it could discourage people from speaking up on Capitol Hill, especially about sensitive topics like LGBTQ+ rights. Hinkle said:
“This kind of arrest makes people feel unsafe to share their views. If a congressperson can accuse someone of assault just for shaking hands and asking a question, it creates fear for others who might want to express their opinions.”
While Mace claims she was attacked, witnesses insist that nothing more than a handshake occurred. The incident has raised questions about how events at the U.S. Capitol are handled, especially when protests or disagreements arise. Some advocates argue that Mace’s response to McIntyre was excessive and sends a bad message to young people who are passionate about making their voices heard.
