South Carolina Republicans are gearing up to give California Governor Gavin Newsom a “HUGE Southern welcome” as he arrives in the state on Tuesday. Newsom’s visit, organized in collaboration with the South Carolina Democratic Party, includes two days of meetings with voters in a state that played a pivotal role in the Democrats’ 2024 primary calendar. This visit is fueling speculation about Newsom’s potential 2028 presidential ambitions, given his significant national profile.
The announcement comes as Newsom, a term-limited governor, is seen as a possible contender for the next Democratic presidential nomination. His presence in South Carolina, a state dominated by the GOP, has not gone unnoticed by Republicans. The South Carolina GOP has been vocal in its opposition, urging supporters to show up in force during Newsom’s visit.
Republican Response to Newsom’s Visit
“Gavin Newsom is bringing his Crazy California agenda to Trump Country. It’s up to us to show him what real leadership looks like,” the South Carolina GOP stated in an email to supporters. The email detailed Newsom’s itinerary, which includes stops at cafes, community centers, and churches. “Show up loud, proud, and decked out in your Trump gear and flags,” the email urged.
State GOP chair Drew McKissic echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Newsom’s policies are unwelcome in South Carolina. “Gavin Newsom should go sell Crazy California somewhere else. He won’t find many takers here,” McKissic stated. Similarly, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, who is launching a Republican campaign for governor in 2026, emphasized that Newsom’s vision does not align with the values of the Palmetto State.
Democratic Strategy and Newsom’s National Ambitions
The South Carolina Democratic Party, which announced Newsom’s trip last week, views his visit as part of a broader effort to engage national Democrats with regions that have been overlooked by Republican leadership. “Governor Newsom leads the largest economy in America and the fourth largest in the world, and he’s coming to meet folks in towns that have been hollowed out by decades of Republican control,” stated Christale Spain, the state party chair.
Newsom’s visit to South Carolina is not his first foray into early-voting states. Last year, he campaigned for then-President Joe Biden during the state’s 2024 presidential primary. He also visited Nevada and New Hampshire, states with significant roles in the Democratic primary process. These actions have contributed to the perception of Newsom as a potential 2028 presidential candidate.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The Democratic National Committee is expected to finalize the 2028 primary calendar by early 2027, with South Carolina, New Hampshire, and Nevada vying for influential positions. Newsom’s current visit offers him the chance to build relationships with local voters and officials, which could be advantageous if he decides to pursue a presidential campaign in the future.
Historically, South Carolina has been a crucial state for presidential hopefuls, often serving as a bellwether for broader national trends. Newsom’s engagement with the state reflects a strategic move to establish a foothold in this important political landscape.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Newsom’s actions and the responses they elicit from both parties will likely shape the early narratives of the 2028 presidential race. The relationships and impressions formed during this visit could play a significant role in Newsom’s political future.
Paul Steinhauser, a politics reporter based in New Hampshire, contributed to this report, providing insights into the campaign trail from coast to coast.
