California Governor Gavin Newsom’s South Carolina Visit Sparks Political Tensions
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) is making waves in South Carolina as he embarks on a two-day tour of the state, drawing attention and criticism from local Republicans. This visit has sparked speculation about a potential presidential run in 2028, as Newsom seeks to connect with voters across the Palmetto State.
Newsom’s itinerary includes eight counties, with the goal of engaging with rural communities that are often overlooked by Republican leaders. During a stop at a Florence County cafe, Newsom emphasized the importance of reaching out to these areas. “It’s really important for Democrats that we spend time in parts of our state, in parts of our country, that frankly we haven’t spent enough time in,” he said.
The response from South Carolina Republicans has been swift and vocal. U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) challenged Newsom to a debate, while the South Carolina GOP encouraged supporters to attend his events dressed in Trump gear and flags. The atmosphere is charged, with political tensions evident even before Newsom arrives.
On social media, Newsom faced off with Republican Attorney General Alan Wilson, who criticized Newsom’s leadership. “Radical Democrat Gavin Newsom is bringing his California chaos tour to South Carolina this week,” Wilson wrote. He pointed to issues like high crime rates, gas prices, taxes, and homelessness as evidence of Newsom’s policies. In response, Newsom highlighted that South Carolina’s homicide rate is double that of California.
While the 2028 presidential primary is still years away, Newsom is positioning himself as a strong contender among a competitive field of Democratic candidates. His visit to South Carolina, one of the early nominating contests, suggests he is trying to build support among the state’s diverse Democratic electorate.
Wilson, who is running for governor, sees Newsom’s visit as an attempt to gain influence. “South Carolina…for both parties, basically, is the gateway to the White House,” he stated. He questioned whether South Carolinians would want Newsom’s record, citing data showing more people are leaving California than entering it.
In response, a spokesperson for the South Carolina Democratic Party criticized Wilson and the GOP for supporting a Trump budget that could lead to federal funding cuts for rural hospitals. “Instead of lashing out over Governor Gavin Newsom’s visit, Attorney General Wilson should explain why his party just backed a Trump budget that will shut down rural hospitals,” Jon Burton said in a statement.
Newsom’s trip began in the northeastern part of the state and continued to deep-red counties in the Upstate, including Oconee County, where President Donald Trump won over 75% of the vote in the 2024 general election. His visit highlights the growing interest in South Carolina as a key state in the political landscape.
Other Democrats are also making appearances in the state ahead of a potential 2028 bid. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore spoke at the party’s annual Blue Palmetto Dinner in May, and Congressman Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) is set to hold events later in July.
As the political climate in South Carolina continues to evolve, Newsom’s visit underscores the significance of the state in shaping future elections. With both parties vying for influence, the stage is set for a dynamic and competitive political environment.
