California Gov. Gavin Newsom urged Democrats in Clarendon County on Monday to stay engaged in local and national politics, telling a crowd in Manning that “you have agency” and the power to shape upcoming elections.
Newsom spoke Feb. 23 at American Legion Post 204 as part of the South Carolina Democratic Party’s “On the Road” organizing tour. The stop followed an earlier event in Berkeley County and preceded a visit to York County later that evening.
Christale Spain, chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party, said the “On the Road” tour is focused on building grassroots engagement across the state as the 2026 election cycle approaches. She noted that party leaders are traveling county by county to connect with voters and strengthen local organization efforts.
Before Newsom took the stage, the program opened with an invocation by the Rev. Hillary Taylor, who encouraged unity and reflection. Local officials in attendance included Manning Mayor Julia Nelson, Clarendon County Democratic Party Chair Patricia Pringle, former state Sen. John Land, state Rep. Roger Kirby and other current and former elected officials. Organizers also recognized 101-year-old World War II veteran Willie White.
Pringle welcomed Newsom to Clarendon County and presented him with a bottle of locally produced moonshine crafted by Clemson University professor Dr. Howard Conyers and his family.
In his remarks, Newsom framed the moment as one requiring vigilance and grassroots action, repeatedly emphasizing civic participation at every level of government.
“County races matter. State races matter. You matter,” Newsom said. “We’re not bystanders. You have agency. You can shape the future.”
The California governor spoke at length about what he described as threats to democratic institutions, criticizing former President Donald Trump and conservative media outlets. He referenced voting rights battles, redistricting fights and national political polarization, urging Democrats to remain organized and engaged.
“This is a moral moment,” Newsom said, telling the crowd that political change begins locally and builds upward.
He pointed to Democratic victories in recent local and state races across the country and encouraged attendees not to become discouraged by national headlines.
“Destruction is weakness,” he said. “Shock and awe is about exhausting you. It’s about breaking us all down. We cannot afford to sell out and bend a knee.”
Newsom also addressed mid-decade redistricting efforts in Texas and California, describing them as part of a broader political struggle. He said Democratic officials must be willing to respond forcefully when election rules are challenged.
For Newsom, the Clarendon County stop was part of a broader national outreach effort that has included visits to other Southern states. He told attendees engagement in traditionally Republican-leaning areas remains essential and said local organizing will play a key role in future elections.
“Not everybody comes here,” Newsom said. “We’re all bound together by a web of mutuality. We’re all better off when we’re all better off.”
Following his remarks, the governor remained to take photos and greet attendees during a brief meet-and-greet. Organizers said approximately 150 people attended the Manning event.
He closed by encouraging those gathered to remain active in their communities and to pair belief with action.
“It’s faith and works,” he said.
