July 9, 2025

Governor Newsom’s Outreach Tour in South Carolina

News Summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom will visit South Carolina to engage with rural voters, focusing on economically challenged regions. The visit includes a meet and greet organized by the South Carolina Democratic Party. The tour aims to address the needs of communities affected by job losses and natural disasters, while fostering relationships in historically Republican areas. Speculation surrounds Newsom’s political ambitions as he connects with constituents in this critical outreach initiative.

Laurens, South Carolina – California Governor Gavin Newsom is scheduled to visit South Carolina on July 8 and 9, 2025, as part of the Democratic Party’s outreach efforts to engage with voters in rural areas. The South Carolina Democratic Party (SCDP) will host a meet and greet event at St. Paul First Baptist Church in Laurens on July 9 from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm. The church is situated at 216 E. Hampton Ave, Laurens.

During his tour, Newsom will focus on economically challenged and environmentally vulnerable counties in South Carolina, including Marion, Chesterfield, Marlboro, Laurens, Pickens, Oconee, Kershaw, and Florence. The SCDP aims to build relationships with rural voters in these historically Republican-dominated regions, which have been significantly impacted by decades of Republican control, according to SCDP Chair Christale Spain.

The counties on Newsom’s itinerary have suffered severe job losses and destruction from natural disasters, such as Hurricane Helene and the Table Rock Complex Fire. Recent electoral data highlights solid Republican support in these areas, with former President Donald Trump receiving approximately 76% of the vote in Pickens County and around 81% in Oconee County. Notably, Trump held a substantial rally in Pickens in 2023 that attracted around 10,000 attendees.

The governor’s visit aligns with the SCDP’s grassroots organizing and local empowerment strategies, emphasizing the need for disaster relief for affected rural communities. While there is speculation regarding Newsom’s intentions related to a potential presidential campaign in 2028, his visit is not officially linked to any such ambitions, despite questions about possible implications given South Carolina’s role in the early primary elections.

Newsom, recognized for leading the largest economy in the United States and the fourth largest in the world, has taken significant economic steps during his tenure. In 2022, he initiated a state tax refund program and created a system for two years of free community college tuition aimed at aiding Californians. His experience may prove beneficial as he seeks to engage with South Carolina voters.

As part of his outreach strategy, Newsom has acknowledged his growing social media popularity and recent polling, which shows an approval rating of 56%. This perspective could assist in fostering connections with constituents in South Carolina’s rural communities.

The SCDP emphasizes the importance of rebuilding trust and forming relationships with voters in regions that have historically been neglected. Through this tour, the party aims to elevate the voices of rural constituents and address their needs more effectively.

Governor Newsom’s visit is seen as a vital step towards connecting with voters in South Carolina’s rural counties, providing a platform for dialogue and engagement regarding pressing issues that affect these communities.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

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