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Gavin Newsom Courts South Carolina Democrats as He Weighs a 2028 Presidential Bid

On Friday, California Governor Gavin Newsom rallied roughly 150 voters in Lexington, South Carolina, a state holding the first-in-the-nation Democratic presidential primary on January 22, 2028, fueling speculation about a potential White House bid.
Newsom's team acknowledges 'California derangement syndrome' is a real political liability, yet the governor leverages his national profile to court voters despite skepticism about his home state's liberal reputation across the political spectrum.
Attacking President Donald Trump, Newsom told attendees 'we cannot do business as usual; we need to fight fire with fire,' highlighting Trump's crypto-profits, National Guard deployments, and efforts to disrupt midterm elections.
Chair Christale Spain touted the $370,000 raised during the visit, saying the funds have 'literally helped them keep the lights on' at party headquarters as Democrats focus on November midterm turnout.
With Newsom leaving office in January, he positions himself for a possible 2028 campaign while facing a crowded field including Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.

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CNN

+8 Reposted by 8 other sources

Lean Left

Gavin Newsom stumps for South Carolina Democrats — and a possible 2028 bid

The hair gel mostly withstood the Low Country’s sticky sweat.

8 hours ago·Atlanta, United States

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Politico

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Political Wire

Lean Left

Newsom offers hugs in South Carolina

17 hours ago·Arlington County, United States

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WSPA

Center

Gavin Newsom tests waters in South Carolina ahead of 2028

Gavin Newsom hasn't announced a 2028 presidential campaign, but South Carolina voters don't seem to be waiting for one.

23 hours ago·Savannah, United States

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Fortune

Center

Gavin Newsom admits 'California derangement syndrome' is real but won't hide his interest in a presidential run

"I mean, you already feel it, right? There are folks out here — they’re saying they’re already starting to interview state directors."

1 day ago·New York, United States

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Boston Globe

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California made Gavin Newsom famous. Will it drag down his 2028 presidential ambitions? - The Boston Globe

Gavin Newsom’s team acknowledges that “California derangement syndrome” is real.

2 days ago·Boston, United States

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Associated Press News

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California made Gavin Newsom famous. Will it drag down his 2028 presidential ambitions?

Gavin Newsom’s secret is no secret here in South Carolina. They were selling “Gavin 2028” buttons outside his events this past week as he trekked across the state.

2 days ago·New York, United States

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