61 state leaders sign letter in support of Charleston International Airport following Rep. Mace incident
COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — Sixty-one leaders have signed a joint statement in support of the Charleston International Airport.
The statement follows last week’s incident at the airport involving U.S. Representative, and candidate for SC governor, Nancy Mace.
According to an incident report, Mace allegedly berated police officers and TSA personnel at the airport, and screamed expletives at them.
In a press release and via social media, Mace states that airport personnel lied and has demanded that the airport correct what she says are false incident reports. Via X, Mace says she is taking legal action against American Airlines and the Charleston International Airport for “falsified incident report(s) to defame me.”
Since the incident, U.S. Senators Tim Scott and Lindsey Graham have also come out in support of the airport’s TSA agents and officers.
The statement, signed by 61 state officials, says, “As leaders committed to the well-being, reputation and continued success of the Lowcountry and all of South Carolina, we write to express our strong support for Charleston International Airport and the dedicated professionals who serve there each day. Charleston International is more than a travel hub, it is a vital economic engine that strengthens tourism, supports small businesses, sustains thousands of local jobs, and connects our community to the world. Its efficient operations and welcoming atmosphere are central to the Lowcountry’s identity and growth.
We are especially grateful for the men and women responsible for maintaining security and order at the airport. Law enforcement officers, TSA personnel, and airport staff work in a high-pressure environment, balancing safety, customer service, and federal regulatory requirements. They perform these duties with professionalism, courtesy, and a clear commitment to protecting travelers and our region.
Their work ensures that families can travel safely, businesses can thrive, and visitors leave with a positive experience that reflects the hospitality our region is known for. Their dedication is not only commendable, but also essential to our economy and quality of life.
It is important that we recognize and respect the essential role these individuals play in safeguarding the traveling public. The Lowcountry has always prided itself on civility, respect, and gratitude for public service. We believe those who serve at Charleston International exemplify these values daily.
We are proud of Charleston International Airport and the professionals who support it. Their work strengthens our community, reflects the best of the Lowcountry, and ensures that our region remains welcoming, safe, and connected.”
Signed,
Brian Adams, State Senate
Sean Bennett, State Senate
Chip Campsen, State Senate
Tom Fernandez, State Senate
Larry Grooms, State Senate
Matt Leber, State Senate
Ronnie Sabb, State Senate
Ed Sutton, State Senate
Deon Tedder, State Senate
Gary Brewer, State House
Joe Bustos, State House
Sylleste Davis, State House
Gil Gatch, State House
Wendell Gilliard, State House
Harriet Holman, State House
Kathy Landing, State House
J.A. Moore, State House
Jordan Pace, State House
Robby Robbins, State House
Leon Stavrinakis, State House
Mark Smith, State House
James Teeple, State House
Courtney Waters, State House
Spencer Wetmore, State House
William Cogswell, Mayor of Charleston
Greg Habib, Mayor of Goose Creek
Patrick M. O’Neil, Mayor of Sullivan’s Island
Russ Touchberry, Mayor of Summerville
Johnny Cribb, Berkeley County Supervisor
Tommy Newell, Berkeley County Council
Phillip Obie II, Berkeley County Council
Amy Stern, Berkeley County Council
Joe Boykin, Charleston County Council
Jenny Costa Honeycutt, Charleston County Council
C. Brantley Moody, Charleston County Council
Teddie E. Pryor Sr., Charleston County Council
Mary Tinkler, Charleston County Treasurer
Stephen Bowden, Charleston City Council
Karl Brady, Charleston City Council
Jim McBride, Charleston City Council
Mike Seekings, Charleston City Council
William Tinkler, Charleston City Council
Ross Appel, Charleston City Council
Jay Byars, Dorchester County Council
David Chinnis, Dorchester County Council
Eddie Crosby, Dorchester County Council
Todd Friddle, Dorchester County Council
Bill Hearn, Dorchester County Council
Rita May Ranck, Dorchester County Council
Peter Smith, Dorchester County Council
Kelly Bates, Dorchester District 2 School Board
Matt Halter, Summerville Town Council
Tiffany Johnson Wilson, Summerville Town Council
Scott A. Millimet, Sullivan’s Island Town Council
Carl Ritchie, Charleston County Sheriff
Sam Richardson, Dorchester County Sheriff
Reggie Burgess, Mayor of North Charleston
Tom Harnett, State House
