Rep. Nancy Mace has initiated a significant move within the House by filing a censure resolution against Rep. Cory Mills. This resolution proposes to strip Mills of his positions on both the Armed Services and Foreign Affairs Committees. The charges against Mills are serious, pointing to a pattern of alleged misconduct that includes threats of violence and accusations of dishonoring military service. Mace’s decision reflects not just individual concerns but also growing tensions within the Republican Party, particularly regarding accountability.
Mace’s resolution cites various grievous allegations against Mills. These range from claims of falsifying military honors to serious accusations of threatening a former girlfriend. Lindsey Langston’s allegations are particularly shocking, highlighting a permanent injunction issued against Mills by a judge who found her claims credible. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office has corroborated her account through police reports, detailing threatening language from Mills. This paints a troubling picture of his behavior, suggesting a pattern that cannot be overlooked.
In addition to these personal allegations, Mace’s resolution also raises questions about Mills’ military record. A retired Brigadier General has publicly disputed Mills’ claim to a Bronze Star, asserting that he did not authorize such an honor. Not only does this aspect of Mills’ integrity come into question, but it raises broader issues about the respect that military service demands. Mace pointed out that “stolen valor is a serious accusation.” When members of the armed forces challenge another’s claims, those concerns deserve serious attention.
The ethics investigation into Mills expands further with findings from the Office of Congressional Ethics. There are substantial grounds to believe that Mills violated House rules regarding federal contracts and campaign funding limits. The seriousness of these implications underlines why Mace has called for immediate disciplinary measures. An investigative subcommittee has already been formed, signaling the committee’s belief that a formal review is warranted. The formation of this subcommittee is an uncommon step, highlighting the gravity of the allegations against Mills.
One of the more alarming incidents cited in Mace’s resolution involves a February 2025 assault allegation linked to Mills. Even though no charges were filed, the police report details visible injuries and witness accounts that raise eyebrows regarding Mills’ conduct. This pattern, as Mace articulated, is “deeply troubling” and is indicative of a culture of silence that can often hide more extensive issues within Washington’s corridors of power.
Mace’s resolution demonstrates a clear refusal to ignore these issues. She emphasized that this is not merely a partisan matter, stating, “This isn’t about partisan politics, it’s about protecting the integrity of this institution and the safety of women.” This statement resonates deeply given the gravity of the allegations. It serves as a rallying cry for those who believe that accountability must take precedence over party loyalty.
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna has joined Mace, voicing similar concerns about supposed “backroom deals” that aim to shield Mills. Luna’s declaration of potential action if the full House does not address Mace’s resolution swiftly illustrates mounting frustration within their ranks. This further suggests internal fractures over standards of conduct, underlining the larger struggle over what constitutes appropriate behavior among lawmakers.
In a swift counterattack, Mills has denied all allegations, labeling them as politically motivated. His chief of staff dismissed the accusations against him as “uninformed” and described claims of stolen valor as slanderous. These defenses may resonate with Mills’ supporters; however, they do not mitigate the weight of the evidence presented or the call for accountability from his colleagues.
If Mace’s resolution succeeds, it would result in Mills facing formal reprimand—a significant consequence for a sitting member of Congress, particularly from within his own party. It suggests a keen awareness among certain Republicans that the issues at hand are not just about one individual but touch upon the very fabric of congressional ethics and accountability.
The House faces a critical moment, with the timeline for Mace’s resolution set within the confines of House rules. Mace’s efforts have unveiled underlying divisions within the GOP, exposing how discussions about ethics, accountability, and internal protections can drive a wedge among party members. How GOP leadership navigates this situation will not only define Mills’ future but may also set a precedent for how similar issues are addressed within Congress going forward.
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