Rep. Clyburn Praises Newsom's 2028 White House Prospects in South Carolina

California Governor Gavin Newsom embarked on a multi-day tour of South Carolina, a pivotal early primary state, signaling a cautious eye toward a potential 2028 presidential bid. During this trip, Newsom emphasized the importance of rebuilding the Democratic Party for the 2026 midterm elections and addressing national divisions through dialogue, while avoiding direct confirmation of a presidential run. South Carolina Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn, a key party figure, praised Newsom as a leading voice within the party and expressed optimism about his presidential prospects, inadvertently fueling speculation about Newsom's ambitions. Newsom’s visit also highlighted his opposition to policies under President Trump's administration, focusing on issues such as immigration raids and healthcare cuts, and underscored his commitment to grassroots organizing over reliance on single savior figures. Despite some criticism from rivals who accused him of neglecting California's wildfire recovery to campaign elsewhere, Newsom remained focused on mobilizing local Democrats and defending liberal values. The visit also revealed nuanced dynamics between Newsom and other potential 2028 contenders, including former Vice President Kamala Harris, whose future political plans remain uncertain.