A prominent Democrat from South Carolina has voiced concerns about Governor Gavin Newsom’s potential presidential aspirations, urging him to address what he describes as “many failures in California” before considering a run for the White House. Richard Harpootlian, a South Carolina attorney and former state senator, expressed skepticism about Newsom’s ability to connect with blue-collar voters in the state. According to Harpootlian, Newsom’s appeal may be limited due to his affluent background and perceived disconnect from working-class issues.

Harpootlian, who previously chaired the South Carolina Democratic Party, highlighted the need for a candidate who can resonate with blue-collar workers and articulate their hopes and desires. He questioned whether Newsom fits this profile, despite acknowledging his charisma and good looks. Harpootlian’s comments followed Newsom’s recent visit to South Carolina, where he engaged with voters and local Democratic leaders in an effort to strengthen party ties ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

During his two-day tour of the Palmetto State, Newsom visited churches, cafés, coffee shops, and community centers. His trip has fueled speculation about a possible 2028 presidential bid, as he is seen as a potential contender for the Democratic nomination. However, Harpootlian remains unconvinced of Newsom’s ability to win over blue-collar voters, citing his wealth and connections to the Getty oil fortune as potential obstacles.

Harpootlian also pointed out that if Newsom had a proven track record of addressing significant issues like homelessness or strengthening the social safety net in California, he might be a more appealing candidate. The South Carolina Democratic Party organized Newsom’s visit as part of a broader effort to engage national Democrats with regions they believe have been neglected by Republican leadership.

The discussion around Newsom’s potential candidacy comes in the wake of President Donald Trump’s decisive victory in the 2024 election. Some Democrats have criticized their party for neglecting working-class voters and failing to address key economic issues while focusing on attacking Trump. As speculation continues about Newsom’s political future, his office has not yet responded to requests for comment.