Gavin Newsom tours South Carolina to build connections and pitch a potential 2028 presidential bid.
California Governor Gavin Newsom traveled through South Carolina to engage with voters and build momentum for a potential 2028 presidential run. During his visit, Newsom addressed the negative perceptions of California, highlighting the state's economic growth and his record on issues such as subsidized childcare, affordable prescription drugs, and universal health care. Newsom emphasized his leadership in California as a tool to fight the "invasive species" of Donald Trump. He argued that the Democratic Party needs to adopt a more aggressive strategy to consolidate power, specifically by fighting back against Republican redistricting with similar efforts in blue states. While some rioters and critics pointed to California's high gas prices and homelessness, Newsom defended his state's success as a proof of concept for his policies. He also engaged with local Democratic leaders, including South Carolina Democratic Party Chair Christale Spain, to strengthen ties in the state. Newsom noted that his goal is to show up in rural and red counties to demonstrate that the Democratic Party is committed to the long-term strategy of winning back state-level seats and building national influence.
Sources
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Gavin Newsom on how to beat the GOP: 'Democrats need to grow a backbone'
PBS
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Gavin Newsom will leave office in January. In South Carolina, he previews what could come next
cnn.com
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As his naysayers bash California, Newsom leans into his Golden State roots
San Francisco Chronicle