News Summary
California Governor Gavin Newsom has embarked on a two-day tour of South Carolina, aiming to strengthen Democratic ties in rural areas ahead of the 2028 presidential election. His visit includes stops in traditionally Republican counties and highlights pressing issues such as job losses and climate change. While some local leaders welcome his outreach, he faces criticism from state Republicans over his policies. Newsom’s efforts to engage with voters come as part of a broader initiative by national Democrats to regain support in rural communities.
Columbia, South Carolina — California Governor Gavin Newsom has kicked off a two-day tour of South Carolina, signaling a possible bid for the presidency in 2028. The tour, which began on July 8, 2025, includes visits to rural regions and traditionally Republican strongholds in this important early-voting state. Newsom’s outreach comes as he tries to establish a stronger Democratic presence in areas where his party has struggled to connect with voters.
The tour itinerary features stops in several counties, including Florence, Marion, Chesterfield, Marlboro, Laurens, Pickens, and Oconee. Accompanying Newsom during these visits are U.S. Rep. James Clyburn and South Carolina Democratic Party Chair Christale Spain. The South Carolina Democratic Party (SCDP) has emphasized the pressing issues faced by these counties, such as job losses and the impact of climate-related disasters.
The SCDP believes the tour is crucial for building partnerships with rural voters, a group that has often felt overlooked by the Democratic Party. Newsom’s aim is to increase engagement with these communities as he stresses the importance of listening to diverse viewpoints and finding common ground.
Despite the warm reception from some constituents, Newsom’s visit has also met with resistance. High-ranking Republicans in South Carolina have criticized his policies in California, with state Attorney General Alan Wilson denouncing what he sees as failed governance in his home state. South Carolina Republican Party Chairman Drew McKissick expressed doubt regarding Newsom’s appeal, referencing the migration of residents out of California as evidence of discontent.
Throughout the tour, Newsom devoted considerable time to interacting with voters in small businesses and local coffee shops. He has called for an increased Democratic presence ahead of the upcoming midterm elections and urged party members to actively engage with voters who may feel disconnected from Democrats.
On the second day of his tour, Newsom plans to visit South Carolina’s conservative Upstate region, including Seneca, the home of prominent GOP Senator Lindsey Graham. This visit is strategic, as it aims to further bridge the gap between the Democratic Party and conservative voters. By focusing on outreach within these regions, Newsom hopes to rebuild the party’s image after recent electoral losses.
The tour is part of a broader initiative by national Democrats to re-establish their connection with rural and conservative populations. Newsom has also engaged in fundraising efforts, raising $160,000 for the South Carolina Democratic Party prior to the tour, further underlining his commitment to improving party resources in the state.
While Newsom faced protests at some of his events, expressing opposition to his policies, he also garnered support from local voters. Attendees at his gatherings described their experiences positively, indicating that his approach might resonate with them moving forward. Many local Democratic leaders believe that Newsom’s outreach could play a significant role in influencing future Democratic primaries.
As the tour unfolds, its implications for the Democratic Party in South Carolina and possibly the national stage are becoming clear. Newsom’s efforts to connect with rural voters and advocate for diverse perspectives are seen as essential steps toward invigorating Democratic support in a state where Republican influence has dominated in recent years.
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HERE Resources
Governor Newsom Visits South Carolina to Rally Support
California Governor Gavin Newsom Begins Tour in South Carolina
Gavin Newsom Launches Campaign for South Carolina Voters
Governor Newsom Tours South Carolina Amid 2028 Speculations
Gavin Newsom Kicks Off Presidential Bid Tour in South Carolina
Additional Resources
- ABC News: Newsom Slams Trump Admin
- WIS TV: Newsom Visiting Kershaw County
- AP News: Newsom South Carolina Democratic Primary
- Greenville Online: Newsom Tour in South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gavin Newsom
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
