Nancy Mace moves to expel Cory Mills over domestic violence and stolen valor allegations

Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina has taken the rare step of introducing a resolution to expel fellow Republican Cory Mills from the House of Representatives. The move, announced Monday, comes amid a cascade of serious allegations against Mills, including domestic violence, falsely claiming military honors, and profiteering from his office. Mace called the allegations disturbing and said Congress must uphold its integrity.

Mills, who represents Florida's 7th district, has denied all accusations. His office dismissed Mace's resolution as a political stunt, saying it lacks merit and is driven by personal animosity. The House Ethics Committee is already investigating Mills over possible campaign finance violations and misuse of office, though it has not issued findings or formal charges.

The push to expel Mills is unusual-expulsion from the House has only happened five times in U.S. history and requires a two-thirds majority. With such a high bar, the resolution is widely seen as symbolic, but it adds political pressure and keeps the allegations in the spotlight. Mace argued that allowing someone under such serious cloud to remain undermines public trust.

This isn't the first time Mace has targeted Mills. In 2025, she led an effort to censure him over similar concerns, which failed to gain traction. Their rivalry has grown more public in recent months, with both accusing the other of unethical conduct. The latest move reignites debate about how Congress handles misconduct among its members, especially when party loyalty often outweighs accountability.

Reaction within the GOP has been mixed. Some Republicans have expressed concern about the allegations and support for a thorough investigation, while others warn that Mace's resolution could fracture party unity ahead of the 2026 midterms. House Speaker Mike Johnson has not commented directly on the expulsion effort, but aides say leadership prefers to let the Ethics Committee process play out.

Outside groups on both sides are watching closely. Ethics watchdogs say the situation underscores the need for stronger oversight, while conservative activists are split-some backing Mace's stand for integrity, others accusing her of attacking a fellow conservative during a tough election year.

For now, the resolution sits with the House clerk, awaiting referral to committee. Whether it gains momentum depends on how the Ethics investigation unfolds and whether more members are willing to break ranks. In the meantime, the clash between Mace and Mills has become one of the most visible intraparty battles in Congress this year.