Rep. Nancy Mace’s (R-SC) former chief of staff is contemplating a run against the Republican firebrand.

Dan Hanlon quickly rose to the top of Mace’s staff last year before being fired in December, the same week two other staffers departed. Hanlon took Mace’s popcorn machine with him when he left, a source told the Washington Examiner.

The former chief of staff is now aiming to take Mace’s seat in Congress, according to Politico.

“Hanlon has been pleased with how well the idea has been received and how many people are looking for a Mace alternative, both money people in D.C. and movers and shakers in S.C.,” a Republican familiar with the situation told the outlet.

The decision-making process has moved to Hanlon’s meeting with potential donors and team members. He will likely decide soon, as competitors against incumbents usually begin their runs well before the March 30 deadline.

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The potential run exposes the bad blood between Mace and her former chief of staff, and it leaves her vulnerable to attacks by a figure more familiar with her internal workings than anyone else. While no reason was given for Hanlon’s firing, accusations of a toxic work environment have been leveled against Mace.

The Washington Examiner reached out to Mace for comment.