Newsom met with members of the South Carolina Democratic Party at the Antioch Baptist Association before making additional stops in Clarendon and York counties later in the day. His message to voters was clear: “It’s all about 2026.”
Focus on ‘Political Efficacy’
A central theme of the event was “political efficacy,” or the belief that individuals can understand and influence the political system.
Sean McCawley, chair of the Berkeley County Democratic Party, emphasized that message while introducing the governor.
“Everyone here has a high sense of political efficacy, otherwise you wouldn’t be here,” McCawley said. “It’s our job to work to get other people out there, and engage their political efficacy.”
McCawley added that Democrats can compete not only in federal races, but in statewide and local elections as well.
Message to Democrats: Show Up
Newsom praised attendees for remaining engaged despite political challenges.
“You haven’t given in to the fear and the anxiety that marks so much of our politics today,” Newsom said. “You are the antidote to that cynicism, fear, and anxiety.”
The California governor also criticized President Donald Trump, alleging efforts to influence the 2026 elections before votes are cast, referencing Jan. 6 and recent political developments.
“He is not screwing around, and so the question is, are we?” Newsom said. “For things to change, we have to change.”
The remarks drew loud applause from the crowd.
Local Voters React
Attendees said Newsom’s visit made them feel recognized in a state often viewed as solidly Republican.
“It makes us feel seen, because people just see South Carolina as a red dot on a map,” said Summerville resident Hayden Folk.
Others expressed hope that energized voter turnout could make a difference in competitive races, including South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, which has been under Republican control since Democrat Joe Cunningham lost reelection in 2020.
“I think that his messaging, plus voter engagement and voter participation, is very important,” said Summerville resident Montez Aiken. “That is the biggest key — that voters do come out and turn out.”
Looking Ahead to 2026
South Carolina has long played an influential role in Democratic presidential politics, notably helping propel Joe Biden to the party’s 2020 nomination.
Although there has been speculation about a potential 2028 presidential run, Newsom told attendees Monday that his focus remains on the upcoming midterms.
“It’s all about 2026,” Newsom said. “You are more important than you’ve ever been. It’s winning races that people don’t believe we can win. It’s showing up when people don’t think we will.”
