South Carolina Republicans are mobilizing to counter Gavin Newsom’s growing reputation as a potential 2028 presidential contender. The GOP-led state has issued a public challenge to Newsom, accusing him of promoting a ‘Crazy California’ agenda that doesn’t align with Southern values. During Newsom’s two-day visit to the state, the Republican Party has called on supporters to demonstrate their opposition through visible displays of Trump support and conservative messaging. The state’s GOP chair, Drew McKissic, has directly criticized Newsom for promoting policies that are at odds with the Palmetto State’s conservative priorities.
Newsom’s trip to South Carolina is part of a broader strategy to strengthen his national profile ahead of the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination process. The Democratic Party, which is organizing the visit, argues that the itinerary includes communities that have historically been neglected by Republican leadership. State party chair Christale Spain emphasized that Newsom’s experience managing the world’s fourth-largest economy makes him uniquely positioned to engage with these areas. This outreach comes as the Democratic National Committee finalizes the 2028 primary calendar, with South Carolina, Nevada, and New Hampshire competing for the lead-off slot.
The political climate is marked by heightened anticipation for the 2028 election cycle, with numerous Democrats and Republicans exploring potential candidacy paths. Newsom’s recent visits to key early-voting states like Nevada and New Hampshire demonstrate his strategy to build a broad network of support across the national primary calendar. Meanwhile, South Carolina’s Republican establishment is using this opportunity to position itself as a key counterweight to liberal progressive policies, reflecting the broader ideological divide shaping the 2028 race.