Gov. Gavin Newsom brings message to rural South Carolina amid book tour

MANNING, S.C. (WCSC) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom made two stops in rural South Carolina on Monday as part of a Southeast tour promoting his new book and delivering sharp criticism of President Donald Trump.

Newsom, who has not announced a presidential run, spoke with voters in Berkeley and Clarendon counties, bringing what he called a message of optimism and urgency.

“There’s an anxiety that we all feel — all of us,” Newsom told the crowd gathered in Manning.

For resident Jodi Marsh, the visit was unexpected and memorable.

“To hear some hope, a message of hope that we’re going to survive this,” she said. “It’s just been so heartbreaking seeing the country torn apart in such a short amount of time, seeing our neighbors ripped from their cars.”

Newsom told attendees he believes the nation is “under attack,” directing most of his remarks toward Trump and the president’s policy positions. The two political figures have frequently traded public criticism in recent years.

The governor said he chose to stop in Manning and Pineville because Democrats must better engage with rural communities.

“It goes to a lot of our politics today,” Newsom said. “There was a sense that Democrats, frankly, abandoned rural small towns and communities. We’ve got to do a better job and just show up.”

Down the road in downtown Manning, posters opposing California’s political direction were visible. State Rep. Fawn Pedalino, a Republican representing parts of Clarendon and Sumter counties, said the region is positively growing under conservative leadership. She took to social media just days before Newsom arrived in town.

In an interview after Newsom’s event, Pedalino pointed out recent success stories in her district.

“We’ve had several companies choose Clarendon County recently,” Pedalino said, noting an incoming company referred to publicly as “Project Goldenbear” moving from California to the area. “They have chosen Clarendon County as their new home, that’s something we’re proud of.”

Pedalino said the growth extends beyond her district, pointing to statewide population growth.

“We were projected as the fastest-growing state earlier this year and late last year,” she said. “I think that speaks volumes for what we’re doing in the state. I’m really proud of that, and I want to continue seeing that growth in a positive way.”