July 15, 2025

2028 Democratic Presidential Nomination Heats Up in South Carolina

News Summary

In South Carolina, the race for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination is intensifying with several high-profile candidates making campaign visits. Despite the primary being years away, strategists are pushing contenders to establish early visibility after significant losses in the 2024 elections. Candidates like Gavin Newsom and Andy Beshear are focusing on grassroots support and key voter demographics. As interest from multiple candidates grows, the party is preparing for a competitive nomination season.

Columbia, South Carolina – The early jockeying for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination is picking up speed in South Carolina, with several prospective candidates making campaign stops in the state over the next ten days. Despite the first presidential primary votes being two and a half years away, political strategists within the Democratic Party are urging candidates to gain visibility early on, especially after the party’s significant losses in the 2024 elections, which saw them lose the White House and both houses of Congress.

Three prominent Democratic figures are set to campaign in South Carolina, while nearly a half dozen others have recently made appearances in key early primary states such as South Carolina, New Hampshire, and Iowa. Ambitious Democrats are engaging in private discussions with party officials in these early primary states, seeking to build support ahead of a competitive nomination process that could have upwards of 30 potential candidates, leaving no clear frontrunner as of now.

California Governor Gavin Newsom is making headlines as a potential candidate during his campaign stops in South Carolina. His visit is focused on energizing the grassroots Democratic base while raising funds to support local party efforts, having reportedly raised $160,000 during his time in the state. Newsom emphasizes that his primary aim is to strengthen the party ahead of the 2026 midterms, even as supporters rally for him to seek the presidency in 2028.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear is also considering a 2028 bid and plans to tour South Carolina, concentrating his efforts on reaching union members and engaging with the Black community. He highlights his successful track record in connecting with rural voters in Kentucky, where he has won three statewide elections in a predominantly Republican state. Beshear is expected to distinguish himself from Newsom on cultural issues related to the Democratic platform.

Congressman Ro Khanna, who aligns with the progressive wing of the party, is targeting Black voters in his upcoming events in South Carolina. His proactive approach to establishing a national presence reflects a growing strategy among Democrats to gain traction among the party’s base early in the nomination process.

Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is also expressing significant interest in a potential presidential run, demonstrating the competitive environment within the party. Local Democratic leaders in South Carolina are encouraging active engagement from candidates to capitalize on the state’s position in the early primary calendar. This aligns with the historically crucial role that South Carolina plays in shaping the Democratic nomination race.

In light of the 2024 losses, party figures are expressing a sense of cautious optimism about the upcoming 2028 election cycle. The Democrats are aware of the need to rebuild their brand and reestablish their connection with voters. As candidates prepare for their campaigns, there is a noticeable shift towards younger leaders and a focus on what voters expect from the party in the future.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, candidates will likely differentiate themselves based on their political views and responses to cultural issues. With the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination process heating up, this early activity signals that prospective candidates are taking proactive steps to build a solid foundation for their campaigns, setting the stage for what promises to be a dynamic and competitive election cycle.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Gavin Newsom Explores Presidential Run in South Carolina
South Carolina Democrats Prepare for 2028 Presidential Primaries

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

CLINTON STAFF WRITER The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.