Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) faced widespread mockery after conflating transgenic mice with transgender ideology in a social media post. On June 18, 2026, Mace posted on X, formerly Twitter, decrying what she called “radical transgender experiments” on animals funded by taxpayers. She promoted her “TRANS MICE Act,” a bill introduced in July 2025 to ban federal funding for research aimed at altering an animal’s sex characteristics.
Community Note Corrects Misunderstanding
Almost immediately, a community note appended to Mace’s post clarified that “transgenic mice” are genetically modified organisms used in biomedical research, particularly cancer studies, and have no connection to transgender ideology. The note linked to a National Institutes of Health study and a fact-check by Americans for Medical Progress. Transgenic mice are defined as mice with foreign DNA incorporated into their genome to study gene function and disease mechanisms.
Despite the correction, Mace doubled down the next day, asserting her post was “not about transgenic mice” but about “federally funded transgender-related experiments on animals.” She provided no examples to support her claim.
Backlash and Mockery
The congresswoman’s error sparked widespread ridicule on social media. Users highlighted the irony of politicians attacking science funding while also advocating for eliminating the Department of Education. One user noted, “transgenic is not transgender you fucking retarded bitch,” while another quipped, “Translation: Not transgender. Transmission: Not transgender. Transgenic: Also not transgender. English is hard.” Critics also pointed out Mace’s failed gubernatorial bid and questioned her competence.
The incident underscores ongoing tensions around scientific literacy and political rhetoric. Mace’s TRANS MICE Act remains dormant in committee, and no evidence of federally funded transgender experiments on animals has been presented.
