California Gov. Gavin Newsom will meet with voters across South Carolina in a two-day trip through the state next week, further fueling speculation that the Democratic governor is preparing for a 2028 presidential run.
The South Carolina Democratic Party — which announced the trip Thursday — is marketing the series of meet-and-greets as an opportunity for the governor to meet with communities impacted by natural disasters and “speak to the urgent need for federal support and investment” in the wake of Hurricane Helene and the Los Angeles wildfires.
Newsom traveled to the state in January 2024 to stump for former President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in the run-up to the presidential election. He received a lukewarm reception from some voters skeptical of his liberal reputation, POLITICO reported at the time.
The state has held a key role in recent nominating contests as the first state in the South to vote. The Democratic National Committee — under Biden — elevated it to be the first sanctioned primary contest in 2024, and the state is fighting to hold onto its favored status in the presidential selection process.
“For two days, Governor Newsom will listen to local concerns, share proven solutions on jobs, health care, and rural infrastructure, and spotlight South Carolinians who are already driving progress in their hometowns,” the SCDP said in a press release.
Newsom is considered one of the early front-runners for a potential 2028 Democratic presidential bid, alongside candidates like Harris and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
