Newsom’s South Carolina trip draws backlash from state Republicans

California Gov. Gavin Newsom is set to make a splash in South Carolina this week, as he teams up with the state’s Democratic Party for a two-day visit to the key presidential primary state. The trip is sure to fuel speculation about Newsom’s potential presidential ambitions in 2028, as he is considered a frontrunner for the Democratic nomination.

Republicans in South Carolina are gearing up to give Newsom a “HUGE Southern welcome,” with the state GOP sending out emails urging supporters to show up in force and demonstrate their opposition to Newsom’s “Crazy California agenda.” State GOP chair Drew McKissic and Attorney General Alan Wilson have both spoken out against Newsom’s visit, emphasizing the need to uphold conservative values in the Palmetto State.

On the other side of the aisle, the South Carolina Democratic Party is welcoming Newsom’s visit as an opportunity to engage with voters in parts of the state that have been historically overlooked by Republican officials. State party chair Christale Spain highlighted Newsom’s leadership in California’s economy and his commitment to addressing issues facing marginalized communities.

Newsom’s visit to South Carolina follows previous campaign stops in Nevada and New Hampshire, two other early-voting states in the Democratic primary calendar. With the 2028 presidential election cycle on the horizon, Newsom’s interactions with voters and party officials in South Carolina could set the stage for a potential presidential run in the future.

As Newsom navigates the political landscape in South Carolina, his connections with local leaders and voters will be crucial in building a strong foundation for a possible 2028 campaign. The trip presents an opportunity for Newsom to showcase his leadership skills and policy priorities to a key demographic of Democratic voters.

Overall, Newsom’s visit to South Carolina is a strategic move that could shape the trajectory of his political career and position him as a formidable contender in the upcoming presidential race. With the support of the state Democratic Party and the attention of Republicans, Newsom’s trip is poised to make a significant impact on the 2028 election landscape.