Clyburn: Newsom could be a strong candidate for the presidency if he decides to enter the race.

Comments on Gavin Newsom’s Potential Presidential Run

During a recent TV segment, Rep. Jim Clyburn from South Carolina remarked that California Governor Gavin Newsom could emerge as a “workable” Democratic candidate if he opts to run for president in 2028.

Clyburn agreed when questioned about Newsom’s ability to effectively communicate the Democratic message.

“He’s shown an admirable record as Gavin Newsom in California for quite some time,” Clyburn stated in a live discussion with CNN’s Laura Coates. “He has been articulating the Democratic message in recent years, so I believe he’ll be a viable candidate in the future.”

This past Tuesday, Newsom kicked off a two-day tour in South Carolina, where he visited rural regions, snapped photos, and interacted with voters in the northeastern sector of the state. Considered a leading contender for the party’s presidential nomination, Newsom emphasized the necessity for Democrats to engage with differing perspectives.

“I think it’s crucial for Democrats to invest time in various parts of our country. Honestly, we haven’t dedicated enough time, so I’m here,” he expressed.

Newsom, who earlier faced confusion from President Biden in 2024 while in the state, criticized President Trump’s “big and beautiful bill,” pointing to significant cuts in Medicaid.

“We might consider this a big, beautiful betrayal. The largest healthcare cuts in American history are occurring right now. They’re celebrating their so-called success while slashing essential services,” he stated.

“Our children’s access to food is compromised. We’re accumulating debt from situations we never envisioned. This represents the most significant transfer of wealth in U.S. history. We didn’t even aim for tax cuts for small businesses or billionaires,” he added.

CNN’s Omar Jimenez inquired about the likelihood of Newsom being a “strong” presidential candidate. Clyburn referenced Newsom’s visit to Camden, South Carolina, where attendance exceeded his expectations.

“I joined him in Camden and initially anticipated a modest crowd for a Tuesday afternoon. It turned out to be a substantial gathering, with many attendees who hadn’t experienced such events before, indicating that people are indeed listening to him,” Clyburn noted.