Democrats swarm South Carolina to boost midterm races and scout 2028 prospects
A group of prominent Democrats is traveling to South Carolina to campaign for midterm candidates while gauging support for potential 2028 presidential bids.
Democratic leaders are converging on South Carolina to support local midterm candidates even though Republicans control state politics. The delegation features five figures thought to be weighing 2028 presidential runs: Representative Ro Khanna, Governor Andy Beshear, Senator Mark Kelly, Governor JB Pritzker and veteran operative Rahm Emanuel, each scheduled for campaign stops and fundraising events. Recent trips by former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Governor Gavin Newsom and Senators Ruben Gallego, Cory Booker and Wes Moore add to the flurry of activity.
The visits serve a dual purpose: bolstering down-ballot races and allowing potential presidential hopefuls to gauge voter reaction ahead of the state's first-in-the-nation primary. DNC member Bre Maxwell noted that candidates use the trips to assess their appeal and build networks for a possible 2028 run. Former Vice President Kamala Harris has not scheduled a new visit, relying on her established ties in the state.
Why it matters
The visits show Democrats using South Carolina to shape both midterm outcomes and future presidential strategies.
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