California Governor Gavin Newsom is making headlines with a controversial trip to South Carolina — a key early voting state — fueling speculation he’s preparing to run for president in 2028. While Newsom hasn’t formally declared his candidacy, this latest move has political watchers buzzing.
California Liberalism Comes to the South?
Newsom’s visit is being framed as a “listening tour” across rural South Carolina counties. But many see it as a calculated political move. These communities — described by Democrats as “economically challenged” — are being used to push the narrative that Republican leadership has failed. Ironically, these same Democrats ignore the crushing cost of living, crime, and homelessness plaguing Newsom’s California.
Now, the same governor who presided over soaring taxes, rampant crime, and sanctuary city chaos is trying to sell his message to Southern voters.
Early State, Early Strategy
South Carolina played a critical role in the 2024 Democrat primary and is expected to do so again in 2028. Newsom’s visit allows him to build early name recognition and establish ties with party leaders in a state where voters have long felt neglected after election season ends.
Political experts say Newsom is using the trip to build connections with local officials — the kind of groundwork essential for a successful campaign. But many conservative voters remain skeptical. As one local radio host noted, “We’ve seen what California looks like. No thanks.”
Democrats Already Divided
While Newsom is rising in the polls, he’s facing stiff competition from the far-left. Kamala Harris, Pete Buttigieg, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are all expected to throw their hats in the ring. A recent poll showed Newsom’s support doubling after protests erupted over Trump’s renewed immigration enforcement, but Harris still leads with 34%.
The Democrat Party appears deeply divided — between radical progressives and establishment liberals — as they prepare to take on President Trump’s strong conservative leadership in 2028.
Newsom Dodges on 2028 Plans
Despite the optics, Newsom denies any campaign plans. “I’m not thinking about running,” he told The Wall Street Journal, before admitting, “it’s a path that could unfold.” Political insiders call it a classic pre-campaign move — testing the waters without making it official.
Meanwhile, the South Carolina Democratic Party is showering Newsom with praise, calling him a leader of the “fourth largest economy in the world.” But critics say this is just more coastal elitism packaged as populism — something rural voters are growing tired of.
Why It Matters
Governor Newsom’s national ambitions could reshape the Democratic Party. But voters in conservative America — especially those over 50 who remember Ronald Reagan’s America — have real concerns about where he wants to take the country.
As President Trump focuses on securing the border, rebuilding manufacturing, and restoring American values, the contrast with Newsom’s liberal vision couldn’t be clearer.