California Governor Gavin Newsom made headlines during his recent visit to Camden, South Carolina, where he sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s administration for what he described as a significant reversal of civil rights in America.
In a passionate address to attendees, Newsom stated, “What we’re experiencing is America in reverse. They’re trying to bring us back to a pre-1960s world on voting rights. You know it well. Civil rights, LGBTQ rights, women’s rights, and not just access to abortion, but also access to simple reproductive care, contraception… It’s a moment that few of us could have imagined.”
This event marked the conclusion of a busy first day in a two-day tour of rural counties in South Carolina, organized by the South Carolina Democratic Party. Newsom emphasized the importance of his visit, not only to support local Democrats but also to build his national profile, particularly as he is viewed as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential election.
Although he has not formally announced his intentions for the presidency, his remarks resonated with the audience, especially in the context of the state serving as the first official primary contest for Democrats in the upcoming 2024 election cycle.
During the event, Congressman Jim Clyburn introduced Newsom and humorously referenced the governor’s rumored presidential aspirations, saying, “We cannot just focus on the president. We got to build a foundation. So as we go around welcoming these candidates who are running for president…” This elicited laughter from the crowd and added a light-hearted moment to the proceedings.
Throughout his speech, Newsom expressed concern over the current political climate, stating that he and other Democrats had been worried about a moment when they would have to campaign actively against Trump prior to his presidency. “We’re seeing rights regression and a great divergence, red versus blue, blue states versus red states, where this banning binge is occurring, where this cultural purge is occurring,” Newsom remarked.
He urged those present to recognize their power in shaping the future, saying, “The future’s not just something to experience. It’s something to manifest. It’s not in front of you. It’s inside of you. Decisions, not conditions, determine our fate and future, and it’s a reminder of your power at this moment.”
Furthermore, Newsom did not shy away from criticizing President Donald Trump’s recent immigration enforcement actions in Los Angeles, which coincidentally occurred during California’s commemoration of six months since devastating wildfires in the area. He asserted, “There’s a war that’s been declared at home, my home. We cannot let him win. We cannot allow him to win. So that’s why I’m here.”
The governor’s call to action urged attendees to vote for Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections to regain control of the U.S. House of Representatives. His message was clear: mobilization now can alter the trajectory of the political landscape.
Newsom’s engagement in Camden concluded a whirlwind day that also included a stop at a cafe in Florence, South Carolina, where he reiterated his themes.
However, the South Carolina Republican Party responded to Newsom’s tour by framing it as opportunistic. They expressed skepticism about his appeal throughout the state, with Republican Party chair Drew McKissick stating, “Apparently, California Governor Gavin Newsom is looking for some new voters to fool as he plans to run for President in 2028. Or maybe he’s looking for voters who left California due to high taxes, government over-regulation, and woke insanity… Gavin Newsom should go sell Crazy California somewhere else. He won’t find many takers here.”
As Newsom continues his political journey, his visit to South Carolina highlights the growing friction between state and federal policies, particularly surrounding civil rights and the role of governance at home.
image source from：abcnews
