California Governor Visits South Carolina Coffee Shop
Florence, South Carolina – California Governor Gavin Newsom made an appearance at a local coffee shop after nearly six months of President Trump’s administration, aiming to rally support and promote his resistance against the current political climate.
Democrats seemed to feel a renewed sense of hope, perceiving his visit as a kind of spiritual revival after the challenges posed by the 2024 election. Many in attendance looked to him as a potential leader capable of energizing the grassroots.
“I’m really feeling down,” Marion Wagner, a retired postal worker waiting at Lilgizzi’s café, shared on Tuesday. “This is a ray of hope.”
“Thanks for suing Trump!” exclaimed Suzanne La Rochelle, the executive director for Florence County Democrats, as she engaged with the tall, charismatic politician.
“This is the shock South Carolina needs,” added Joyce Black, a 63-year-old grant writer, with a fist pump.
In his attempt to help reclaim the US House in 2026, Newsom has covered over 2,000 miles from California to South Carolina, focusing on deep rural areas that often feel overlooked by Republicans. And let’s be clear—he’s also eyeing connections in this important presidential primary state.
While South Carolina doesn’t currently offer competitive residential areas like California does, it has historical significance in the primary process.
Representative James Clyburn, a key figure in the Democratic Party, addressed the audience alongside Newsom in Camden, South Carolina, emphasizing the importance of local elections. “Don’t forget the school board,” he reminded everyone.
There was a moment of awkward laughter when Newsom turned to look for someone else, as if to diffuse any tension. Clyburn noted he would support Newsom if he ran, saying, “He’s demonstrated it over and over again. I feel good about his chances.”
However, Newsom may face significant obstacles if he chooses to pursue a presidential bid. Some voters have reservations about him being a Californian.
California’s impressive economy contrasts sharply with the criticisms surrounding high living costs and growing income inequality, making Newsom a target for Republican activists. During an event in solidly red Pickens County, chants of, “Your state is in chaos!” surfaced.
Meanwhile, Tamra Misseager, a teacher who relocated from California to South Carolina, shared her own frustrations. She expressed anger over challenges she faced since moving, including homelessness and policies implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Even within his own party, some worry Newsom is too progressive and wealthy to resonate with working-class voters. Richard Halptorian, a former Democratic senator, expressed skepticism about whether Newsom could connect with blue-collar concerns.
“He’s a very, very handsome guy,” Halptorian admitted, “but the party is searching for a candidate who can better articulate the needs of the working class.”
Despite the challenges, the focus of Newsom’s tour was to stimulate grassroots enthusiasm and raise funds. He successfully raised $160,000 for South Carolina Democrats, almost two-thirds of the annual budget provided by the Democratic National Committee.
During a gathering, Newsom voiced disappointment with how the Democratic Party has neglected rural communities and emphasized the urgency for action. “We can’t afford to sit on the sidelines,” he stated.”
Many attendees seemed impressed by Newsom’s charisma and his ability to articulate opposition to Trump with clarity and empathy. One woman even remarked her friend had a crush on him after his speech.
Newsom, while tackling the challenges facing America, reflected on how the political atmosphere has shifted. He voiced a commitment to combating efforts that threaten voting rights and access to essential healthcare services.
In discussing his stance, he noted, “As Dr. King said, we are all tied to a web of mutuality.” This sentiment resonated, evoking nods and affirmations from the crowd.
